NEW YORK, May 4 – A parade of A-list celebrities walked the red carpet Monday evening at New York’s prestigious Met Gala while demonstrators gathered outside to voice opposition to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos’ major financial backing of the exclusive event.
Notable attendees making their grand entrances included recording artists Sam Smith and Doja Cat, along with acclaimed actress Nicole Kidman at the fashion industry’s most exclusive annual gathering.
Lauren Sanchez Bezos, wife of the tech billionaire, was spotted among the evening’s earliest arrivals at the yearly fundraising event benefiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, which has gained worldwide recognition for its elaborate fashion displays and celebrity guest list.
The Bezos couple served as primary event sponsors through a contribution that media sources report reached $10 million, earning them honorary chair positions. This significant financial involvement sparked calls for boycotting the gala due to concerns about economic disparity and labor practices.
Demonstrators positioned themselves outside the museum wearing vibrant clothing while displaying letters that spelled out “tax the rich” alongside banners proclaiming “resistance red carpet” and “eat the rich.”
The evening’s anticipated guest list featured major names including Rihanna, Beyoncé, Venus Williams and Kim Kardashian. While individual tickets carry a $100,000 price tag, most celebrity attendees receive invitations as honored guests.
Internet sensation Emma Chamberlain made an early appearance for photographers wearing a form-fitting outfit with floor-length sleeves, while La La Anthony showcased a jewel-encrusted gown.
The 2024 event embraced the theme “Fashion is Art,” encouraging attendees to view their bodies as artistic canvases.
French social media influencer Lena Mahfouf turned heads in a sculptural top designed to resemble silver hands paired with a flowing bottom portion.
Actress Gwendoline Christie created another memorable moment upon arrival, sporting an elongated crimson dress complemented by elaborate feathered headwear and a realistic facial covering.
