Met Gala 2025: Holdouts and Hypocrisy in the Age of Bezos Sponsorship
Met Gala 2025: Holdouts and Hypocrisy

The Met Gala 2025 in New York drew its usual glitterati, but the most talked-about figures were those who stayed away. Sarah Paulson attended wearing a dollar bill over her eyes, a pointed protest against the wealth on display, while Zohran Mamdani, the mayor of New York, declined his invitation, instead honoring garment workers on social media. Zendaya skipped due to work commitments, and Taraji P Henson publicly questioned attendees' motives, posting, 'I am so confused by some ppl that are going. I am just like WTF ARE WE DOING?'

A Night of Contradictions

The event, sponsored for the first time by Jeff Bezos, raised funds for the Costume Institute. Critics noted the irony of celebrating art while billionaire supporters of a president who slashed arts funding were honored. Despite the controversy, the costumes were praised as lovely.

Emmanuel Macron Sings in Armenia

In a lighter moment, French President Emmanuel Macron sang Charles Aznavour's 'La Boheme' at a state dinner in Yerevan, accompanied by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on drums. Macron's performance, while lacking in vocal skill, was endearing in its vulnerability.

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Harrow School Fee Cuts

Harrow International School in Long Island slashed fees from $61,700 to $50,544 after enrolling only 20 students, outnumbered by 23 teachers. American parents remain skeptical of the brand's transferability across the Atlantic.

Michael Frayn Reflects

At 92, playwright Michael Frayn discussed his career on BBC Radio 4, sharing anecdotes about his novel 'Spies' and Chekhov translations. He confirmed his retirement, saying, 'Sadly, it's over.'

Ikea Bedroom Makeover

A personal account of disassembling Ikea cabin beds highlighted the frustration of cam locks, requiring three hours of effort and a hammer.

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