This year’s Met Gala could be known as “The Met Meltdown” as there were many opposed to this event. The tension was felt even before the first celebrity stepped out of their limousine. Thousands of protesters gathered along Fifth Avenue, brandishing signs that read “Tax the Rich” and “Billionaires for a Dead Planet.” The atmosphere took a dramatic turn when Chris Smalls, American labor organizer and activist, was reportedly arrested after attempting to breach security to reach the red carpet.
Activists managed to bypass security to place around 300 bottles of amber-colored liquid throughout the museum’s galleries. This was meant to represent the alleged conditions of Amazon warehouse workers, who were not allowed bathroom breaks. This “Pee Bottle” protest ensured that even the most exclusive guests couldn’t ignore the labor disputes happening outside the museum’s walls.
Perhaps most telling was who wasn’t there. In a stunning departure from tradition, Met Gala staples like Zendaya, Lady Gaga, and Billie Eilish reportedly skipped the event. This may be signaling a growing rift between Hollywood’s biggest stars and the “billionaire class”. This mass boycott left the red carpet feeling thinner than usual, despite the presence of other well known stars.
While the Met Gala continued inside, a more grassroots celebration was happening in the Meatpacking District. Labor unions and local activists hosted a “Ball Without Billionaires,” which showcased immigrant designers and emphasized community over excess. This highlighted a growing cultural shift where the ethics of sponsorship are being scrutinized as heavily as the outfits.
Ultimately, the 2026 Met Gala raised a record $42 million for the Costume Institute, but it came at a high reputational cost. The night proved that in an era of heightened social consciousness, even the most prestigious events cannot remain insulated from the struggles of the real world.
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