New York City's 2025 Met Gala dazzled with its "Tailored for You" theme, celebrating Black dandyism and sharp sartorial elegance. While Zendaya, Rihanna, and co-chairs like Pharrell Williams lit up the red carpet, several iconic A-listers were conspicuously absent from fashion's most exclusive event. Here's a breakdown of the stars who missed this year's gala—and why.
Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds Bow Out Amid Legal Drama
Met Gala favorite Blake Lively skipped the event for the third consecutive year, likely due to her ongoing legal battle with actor Justin Baldoni. Lively, known for show-stopping looks like her 2022 Statue of Liberty-inspired Versace gown, last co-chaired the gala with husband Ryan Reynolds. Her absence left fans wondering what grand fashion moment might have been.
Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce Pass on Red Carpet Debut
Despite rumors of a joint appearance, Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce stayed home. Swift, who last attended in 2016 as a co-chair, is focusing on her record-breaking Eras Tour, while Kelce's off-season plans kept him away. Their no-show dashed hopes of a power-couple moment at the event.
Beyoncé Skips Met Gala for Cowboy Carter Tour
Beyoncé, absent since her 2016 Givenchy gown debut, prioritized her Rodeo Chitlin' Circuit Tour over the gala. While sister Solange Knowles attended, Queen Bey's tour schedule kept her from honoring the "Black dandyism" theme—a missed opportunity fans lamented online.
LeBron James Sidelined by Injury
NBA legend LeBron James, named an honorary chair, missed his Met Gala debut due to a knee injury from the Lakers' playoff loss. Wife Savannah James represented the family, with LeBron joking on social media about her "holding the castle down."
Ariana Grande's Wicked Commitments Keep Her Away
Ariana Grande, who stunned at the 2024 gala with Wicked co-star Cynthia Erivo, skipped this year's event amid filming for the musical's sequel. Erivo attended solo, leaving fans awaiting another magical duo moment in 2026.
Royal No-Shows: Meghan & Harry's Met Gala Streak Continues
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle extended their Met Gala absence, opting for lower-profile appearances like the TIME100 Summit instead. The couple has yet to make their debut at the storied event.
Wisdom Kaye Calls Out Invitation Snub
Black fashion influencer Wisdom Kaye sparked buzz after revealing he wasn't invited—despite the theme centering Black dandyism. His viral tweet highlighted ongoing debates about representation at elite fashion events.
Jenner Clan Partially Present
While Kim Kardashian, Kylie Jenner, and Kendall Jenner walked the carpet, matriarch Kris Jenner and daughters Khloé and Kourtney stayed home. Kim's bold look, as always, dominated headlines in their stead.
Jennifer Lopez & Sarah Jessica Parker Prioritize Work
JLo and SATC star Sarah Jessica Parker, both gala regulars, skipped this year. Parker cited work commitments, teasing to ET, "I can't wait to see how they interpreted the homework assignment."
Their Absences Matter
The 2025 Met Gala blended heritage and haute couture, but the missing icons left palpable gaps. From tours to injuries, these stars' reasons reflect the balancing act of fame—and how even fashion's brightest night can't always align with A-list schedules.