Timothée Chalamet made headlines once again by opting to forgo the glitzy 2026 Met Gala in favour of attending a thrilling New York Knicks playoff game at Madison Square Garden. The acclaimed actor, who recently turned 30, took to Instagram on May 4 to share his decision with fans, capturing a lively moment from the game where the Knicks faced off against the Philadelphia 76ers. His choice has drawn mixed reactions but seems firmly rooted in his passion for the team.
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The gala, widely regarded as a pinnacle of high fashion, took place concurrently with the basketball match. While Chalamet cheered on the Knicks, his girlfriend, Kylie Jenner, attended the star-studded event alone. She graced the red carpet in a custom Schiaparelli outfit that embodied this year’s theme, “Costume Art,” complementing the gala’s overarching motif of “Fashion Is Art.” Jenner’s look featured a striking nude corset with faux nipples, topped off with an extravagant voluminous skirt.
Accessorised with a stunning antique silver necklace adorned with rhinestones and pearls, along with matching chandelier earrings, Jenner’s ensemble proved to be a fashionable interpretation of this year’s theme. The exhibition, curated by Andrew Bolton, promises to delve into the intricate relationship between clothing and the human form, showcasing costumes from various eras alongside significant works of art spanning 5,000 years. The exhibition is scheduled to open to the public from May 10, 2026, until January 10, 2027.
The Met Gala, co-chaired this year by luminaries including Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams, and Anna Wintour, is an event that often draws celebrities from all corners of the entertainment industry. However, Chalamet’s absence has sparked conversations about his enduring commitment to the Knicks. The actor previously missed the gala in 2025 for the same reason, and he remains unapologetic about prioritising his support for the team during critical game periods.
In an interview last year, Chalamet addressed his decision to skip the gala a second time, stating, “That Knicks run last year, I think that was the most fun period of my life.” He described the experience as electric, emphasising the thrill of being part of the vibrant atmosphere at Madison Square Garden during the playoff season. His fervour for the team is evident, as he describes each game as more than just a sporting event—it’s an essential part of his social experience.
Kylie Jenner’s attendance at the gala was accompanied by a memorable outing at a Knicks game just six days prior, where the couple were spotted courtside alongside actor Ben Stiller and his wife, Christine Taylor. Interestingly, Stiller and Taylor also embraced team spirit by donning Knicks colours—blue and orange—during the Met Gala, showcasing their loyalty both to the franchise and to Chalamet’s spirited choices.
Chalamet’s unique approach to high-profile events like the Met Gala sets him apart from peers who typically relish the glitz and glamour associated with such occasions. His last appearance at the gala was in 2021 as a co-host, where he made a bold statement in a white Haider Ackermann blazer paired with sweatpants and classic Converse sneakers. At the time, he described his outfit as a “bit of everything,” marking a turning point in fashion choices that blend comfort with high style.
While the fashion world continues to buzz with excitement over the Met Gala, Chalamet remains firmly entrenched in his support of the Knicks. His choices reflect a desire for authenticity, revealing that personal passions can sometimes outweigh the allure of celebrity glamour. The actor’s ability to balance his career milestones with personal interests resonates with fans and is a refreshing take on celebrity culture.
As the sporting season progresses, fans and followers will undoubtedly continue to watch Chalamet’s journey, both on and off the court. His commitment to the Knicks adds a personal touch to his public persona, making him not just an actor of distinction, but also a passionate sports enthusiast rooted in the heart of New York culture.