Why Wasn't Naomi Campbell At The 2025 Met Gala?

Naomi Campbell’s absence from this year’s Met Gala proved to be a major talking point before the event was even underway.

On Monday morning, The Sun published a now-deleted story about the iconic model’s absence from this year’s event, linking it to comments she’d made last year about Anna Wintour, the Vogue editor and organiser of the annual fundraiser.

However, Naomi subsequently set the record straight in an Instagram post, confirming that while she had been invited to the Met Ball (despite the tabloid’s prior claims), she couldn’t be there due to prior commitments.

“I was so honoured to be invited to tonight’s big event, but regretfully cannot make it,” she explained, claiming that while she couldn’t attend in person, she’d be there “in spirit, carried by the legacy of my beloved friend, the late André Leon Talley”.

Elsewhere in her post, Naomi wrote: “Congratulations to Anna Wintour, the brilliant designers, the dedicated Met Gala team, and stunning attendees of tonight’s extraordinary celebration.

“I have to say, what perfect timing for the Superfine: Tailoring Black Style theme. It really celebrates how Black dandyism has shaped fashion and how fashion has been a way for Black people to express.”

Last year, the model sparked rumours of a falling out between herself and Anna Wintour, after seemingly throwing shade her way while accepting a fashion award.

Naomi wasn’t the only prolific Met Ball guest absent from this year’s event though.

Basketball legend LeBron James had been named an honorary chair alongside organisers Lewis Hamilton, Pharrell Williams, Colman Domingo and A$AP Rocky, but was unable to attend on the night due to a recent injury.