In a recent episode of Owen Thiele’s podcast “In Your Dreams,” actress Joey King opened up about the speculation surrounding her appearance at the 2026 Met Gala, specifically the allegations that she had undergone a facelift. The 27-year-old star took the opportunity to clarify these rumours and share the beauty regimen she followed for the prestigious event.
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King, who is known for her role in the upcoming “Practical Magic 2,” addressed the cosmetic surgery myths head-on in the September 11 episode of the podcast. “I’m glad we’re talking about this,” she remarked, before firmly stating, “So I didn’t get a facelift.” She went on to elaborate on the detailed steps she took to prepare for her appearance at one of fashion’s biggest nights.
To achieve her sculpted look, King revealed that she initiated her preparation with a spray tan. Following that, she undertook what she referred to as a “36-hour fast.” “Nothing but water,” she admitted. Although she stressed that she did not advocate for such a drastic step, she mentioned that the decision stemmed from a desire to “reset” her body after feeling “swollen” from festivities at a recent bachelorette party.
What started as a planned 24-hour fast unexpectedly extended to 36 hours. By the time she broke her fast with lunch the following day, King had committed to her beauty overhaul. “I got a lymphatic massage beforehand and then had a facial the day before The Met,” she recounted, highlighting her efforts to ensure she looked her best on the red carpet. She also had another lymphatic massage on the morning of the gala, jokingly adding that despite the extreme measures, her preparations led many to assume she had undergone plastic surgery.
King firmly quashed the rumours, reiterating, “But I didn’t, so.” Her detailed recounting of her beauty routine included a mix of traditional treatments and modern approaches, underlining the physical upkeep that often accompanies high-profile events.
Earlier in the year, King spoke with PEOPLE about her evolving perspective on beauty. She shared that her approach has shifted significantly from a rigid regimen to a more intuitive one. “How I view beauty lately is, it feels much more free for me,” she commented while discussing her role as the global face of Neutrogena’s Evenly Clear collection.
King acknowledged that her makeup routine is fluid, adapting to how she feels each day rather than adhering to a strict standard. “Five, six years ago, I was like, ‘I need to put makeup on every single day, I need to have a full face on,’” she explained. “Now I have a little bit more of a healthy relationship with it,” showcasing her positive transformation in self-acceptance.
She pointed out the importance of personal choice in her current approach to beauty: “What do I feel like doing today [with my makeup]? What is going to make me happy today?” By aligning her look with her emotions, King has fostered a more liberating experience with her beauty routine. She is now more inclined to skip makeup when she feels like it, rather than feeling compelled to follow societal expectations.
King’s candid remarks provide insight into the pressures of public appearances, particularly as a young actress in Hollywood. Her experiences resonate with many, reflecting a broader conversation about beauty standards and the lengths some might go to in order to meet them. Ultimately, King encourages embracing one’s natural self while also advocating for personal freedom in self-expression.
As fans continue to celebrate her achievements and growing body of work, King’s story serves as a reminder that beauty comes in various forms, and embracing one’s innate self is a powerful testament to personal confidence.