The 2025 Met Gala went down on Monday, May 5, and social media couldn’t get enough of fashion’s biggest night. As expected, the red carpet is the MAIN topic, but the list of celebrities who decided to pass on attending also turned heads. From Naomi Campbell to LeBron James and more, here’s who skipped Anna Wintour’s highly anticipated event and why!
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Naomi Campbell Shares Statement About Met Gala
Naomi Campbell broke the hearts of fans and celebs hours before the Met Gala’s red carpet kicked off. The supermodel shared a statement on Instagram congratulating Anna for another Met Gala year and praising the theme. Then, she dropped the bombshell, confirming that she won’t be attending. Why? That remains unclear, but Naomi seemingly plans to tune in from afar. Additionally, Campbell gave the late Andre Leon Talley his flowers for shaping the iconic fashion event!
“I was so honored to be invited to tonight’s big event, but regretfully cannot make it. Even though I am not there in person, I’m with you in spirit, carried by the legacy of my beloved friend, the late Andre Leon Talley. His commanding presence, vision and belief that fashion is art helped shape what the Met Gala is presenting tonight. I can’t wait to see how everyone mixes African and European style traditions on those famous steps tonight! The creativity will be amazing.”
LeBron James Blames Injury For Night-In
This year, the gala had several Black celebrity co-chairs, likely to assist in leading the theme: ‘Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.’ LeBron James was named an “honorary” chair of the event. However, he pulled out of attending just hours before. Like Naomi, he announced the update via social media, namely X.
“Unfortunately, because of my knee injury I sustained at the end of the season, I won’t be able to attend the Met Gala in NY tonight, as so many people have been asking and congratulating me on! Hate to miss an historical event! My beautiful powerful Queen will be there holding the castle down as she always has done! 🙏🏾🫡🤎✨✨✨”
According to ESPN, James got injured last week during Game 5 of the playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves. He reportedly suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee, per an MRI scan. Despite LeBron having to sit this gala out, his wife, Savannah James, delivered as promised! She wore a maroon-colored gown designed by Hanifa. As far as the dress code, “Tailored for You,” the consensus seems to be that Mrs. James ATE and left no crumbs on the carpet!
Editor’s Note: This article is being updated live throughout the event. Please check back for updates.
