Met Gala 2026 faces growing backlash as Meryl Streep among stars pulling back

The Met Gala 2026 is facing unexpected backlash as several major stars are reportedly skipping fashion’s biggest night, fuelling talk of a quiet boycott linked to the involvement of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez.

The high-profile couple are said to have contributed an eight-figure sum to sponsor the event and taken on honorary co-chair roles, a move that has sparked unease among some in the industry.

A-list absences spark questions

Among the most talked-about no-shows is Meryl Streep, whose decision to sit out the gala comes just days after the release of The Devil Wears Prada 2, where she returns as Miranda Priestly.

While a representative said the Oscar winner has “never quite found it her scene”, reports suggest her absence may also reflect discomfort with the event’s new high-profile backing.

Her co-stars Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci are still expected to attend.

Zendaya breaks Met Gala streak

Zendaya, long considered one of the Met Gala’s standout regulars, is also set to miss the event after an intense run promoting upcoming projects including The Drama and the next season of Euphoria.

Her absence marks a notable break from her consistent red carpet appearances in recent years.

More stars may follow

Speculation continues to swirl around Lady Gaga, whose attendance remains unconfirmed despite her history of headline-grabbing Met Gala moments.

The growing list of absentees has only intensified rumours of a wider pullback, although no celebrity has publicly confirmed a boycott.

Organisers defend controversial backing

Met Gala chair Anna Wintour has moved to downplay the controversy, praising Sánchez’s contribution and calling her a valuable addition to the event.

Despite the backlash, organisers expect a strong turnout, with the gala still set to dominate global attention.