Timothée Chalamet chooses Knicks playoff game over Met Gala red carpet appearance

Timothée Chalamet skipped the Met Gala 2026 in New York to attend a New York Knicks playoff game, while his girlfriend, Kylie Jenner, made a solo appearance on fashion’s biggest red carpet in a custom couture look.

The 30-year-old Dune star confirmed his whereabouts on Instagram Stories, sharing a photo from his seat at Madison Square Garden as the Knicks faced the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night, choosing basketball over the annual event at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Chalamet’s absence marks a repeat of last year, when he also skipped the Met Gala in favor of watching the Knicks, a decision he previously defended as being fully committed to supporting the team during its playoff run.

Meanwhile, Jenner walked the red carpet alone in a dramatic custom design by Schiaparelli, aligning with this year’s theme Costume Art.

Her look featured a sculptural silhouette with a corset-style bodice and voluminous skirt, paired with statement jewellery including antique-inspired pieces and chandelier earrings.

This year’s Met Gala theme explored the intersection of fashion and fine art, with curated exhibits examining the human form through different eras and perspectives.

Jenner’s ensemble was presented as a bold interpretation of the theme’s focus on fashion as artistic expression.

Chalamet has previously spoken about his loyalty to the Knicks, saying in earlier interviews that attending playoff games has become one of the most meaningful parts of his spring routine.

His consistent absence from the Met Gala during key games has become a recurring talking point among fans.

Despite skipping fashion’s biggest night, Chalamet has remained closely linked to the event in past years.

He co-hosted the 2021 Met Gala, where he made a memorable debut in a white Haider Ackermann outfit paired with Converse sneakers.