Numerous Celebrities Opted to Miss the 2025 Met Gala – Why Did They Skip Fashion’s Biggest Night?
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Several stars were notably absent from the 2025 Met Gala, which was held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 5 as part of the annual high-fashion event that pays tribute to the Costume Institute’s spring 2025 exhibition titled “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” Guests were instructed to adhere to the dress code of “Tailored for You,” although as per tradition, attendees often interpreted the theme in their unique ways. The evening witnessed a plethora of unforgettable looks, from Rihanna revealing her baby bump in a grey Marc Jacobs bustier to Diana Ross showcasing an 18-foot shawl embellished with the names of her children and grandchildren. The gala also introduced first-time attendees such as Doechii, BLACKPINK’s Lisa, and Coco Jones.

While the red carpet saw a mix of newcomers and familiar faces, fans were left pondering about the absence of several Met Gala veterans from the event. Some of the beloved celebrities who chose to skip the 2025 Met Gala included Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Blake Lively, Lady Gaga, Billie Eilish, Justin Bieber, the Kardashian sisters, Jennifer Lopez, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Ariana Grande, among others.

Since her last appearance in 2016, Beyoncé has not graced the Met Gala, with her current Cowboy Carter tour engagements likely playing a role in her absence. Similarly, Taylor Swift, who last attended in 2016, decided to skip the event due to conflicting work schedules, following her Eras Tour and Travis Kelce’s football commitments. Power couple Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds were also notably missing from the gala, with sources revealing their decision to take a break from the event amidst ongoing legal matters.
Lady Gaga, who has had a decade-long history with the Met Gala, was a notable absentee this year, possibly due to her recent performance in Rio de Janeiro. Meanwhile, Billie Eilish, who was busy with a concert on the same night, and Justin Bieber, who opted to support his wife Hailey from afar, also missed the prestigious event.
The Kardashian family was not entirely represented at the gala, with Kris, Khloé, and Kourtney Kardashian choosing to sit out this year’s event. Although Kim Kardashian, Kendall, and Kylie Jenner were in attendance, the absence of Kris, Khloé, and Kourtney did not come as a surprise, given their limited recent appearances at public events.
Despite being a frequent attendee in previous years, Jennifer Lopez skipped the 2025 Met Gala, sharing that work commitments kept her from participating but expressing excitement at seeing how others interpreted the theme. Similarly, Ariana Grande, who walked the red carpet in 2018 and 2024, was absent this year due to her tour obligations.
NBA star LeBron James, set to make his debut at the gala as an honorary chair, had to pull out last minute due to a knee injury. His wife, Savannah James, attended in his stead. SZA and Kendrick Lamar, busy with performances at the time, were also unable to make it to the event. The Weeknd, Selena Gomez, and Naomi Campbell were among the other high-profile personalities who opted not to attend the 2025 Met Gala.
While these celebrities may have missed the glitz and glamour of the Met Gala this year, fans can look forward to their triumphant return in the future, as they continue to captivate audiences with their talent and style.
Enjoy Fashion’s Biggest Night With News and Updates from People Magazine.
