Zendaya Skips Met Gala Over Bezos Sponsorship

Zendaya's Absence Confirmed

Zendaya will not be attending this year’s Met Gala, reportedly due to a busy schedule. This comes as Jeff and Lauren Bezos’ sponsorship of the event sparks backlash and prompts at least one A-list celebrity to withdraw from participation.

Bezos and Sanchez's Sponsorship Draws Criticism

The annual fundraising gala, often dubbed the ‘Oscars of Fashion,’ is set to take place on Monday and is financially supported by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his wife, Lauren Sanchez. This marks the first time Bezos and Sanchez have sponsored the event, and their involvement has sparked considerable controversy within the fashion industry.

Scheduling Conflicts and Prior Commitments

Zendaya, known for her striking fashion choices and consistent presence at high-profile events, is opting out of this year’s Met Gala. Her demanding schedule, encompassing promotional work for her recent projects ‘The Drama’ and ‘Euphoria,’ is cited as the reason for her absence. She was recently seen supporting Tom Holland at his Bero event in California.

Industry Response to Sponsorship

The controversy extends beyond Zendaya’s decision. Veteran actress Meryl Streep reportedly declined an invitation to serve as a co-chair due to the couple’s prominent role. This highlights a growing unease among some industry figures regarding the association of the Met Gala with Bezos, whose business practices have faced scrutiny.

Concerns Expressed by Industry Insiders

An industry insider described the situation as “hurtful and disturbing,” expressing concern that the couple’s involvement diminishes the event’s meaning and feels like a “slap in the face” to those who value its tradition. At least one other high-profile celebrity has adjusted their participation in the gala’s programming as a direct result of the Bezoses’ sponsorship.

Public Demonstrations and Wintour's Defense

The situation has even prompted public demonstrations, with posters appearing throughout Manhattan urging a “Boycott The Bezos Met Gala.” Despite the backlash, Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of Vogue and a key organizer of the Met Gala, has publicly defended the couple’s involvement.

Wintour Praises Sanchez's Generosity

In a previous interview with CNN, Wintour emphasized Lauren Sanchez’s potential as an “wonderful asset” to the museum and the event, praising her “incredible generosity” and passion for costume and fashion.

Event Details and Theme

The theme for this year’s Met Gala is ‘Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,’ with a dress code of ‘The Garden of Time.’ Attendees are encouraged to interpret the theme through their sartorial choices. The event will also feature co-chairs Beyoncé, Venus Williams, and Nicole Kidman alongside Wintour.