Met Gala: A History of Glamorous Scandals
May 5, 2025
As anticipation builds for the upcoming Met Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, a look back at the event’s most infamous controversies reveals a tapestry of scandal woven through glitz and glamour.
The Met Gala has continuously attracted celebrities who aren’t afraid to push boundaries. In recent years, it has been the site of shocking incidents — from stars lighting up cigarettes near priceless artworks to jaw-dropping performance art displays. For instance, the 2017 gala saw Russian artist Fyodor Pavlov-Andreevich making headlines after being unveiled stark naked in a clear box, igniting chaos among security personnel.
Lighting up in the gala’s restroom became a notorious trend in the 2000s, with stars like Dakota Johnson and Marc Jacobs proudly showcased in smoking selfies. Critics claimed this behavior was not just disrespectful to the museum’s art but also contravened New York’s stringent no-smoking policies. A disgruntled donor even suggested fines for the offenders, highlighting the ongoing tension between celebrity antics and artistic respect.
In 2014, drama unfolded post-gala when Solange was allegedly filmed attacking her brother-in-law Jay-Z in an elevator, sparking speculation about family troubles. Meanwhile, iconic fashion statements have also stirred controversy; Cher’s sheer, diamond-studded ensemble in 1974 shocked attendees and is credited with popularizing the "illusion dress."
The 2021 gala saw Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez donning a gown emblazoned with “TAX THE RICH,” seamlessly blending political messaging with high fashion.
As this year’s Met Gala approaches, the promise of spectacular fashion and potential headlines loom on the horizon, ensuring the event remains a pivotal moment in the fashion calendar and beyond.
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