Playboi Carti has stirred headlines after claiming he was banned from attending the 2025 Met Gala, one of fashion’s most elite and exclusive nights. The rapper took to Instagram to vent his frustration in all caps, writing:
“MET GALA BANNED ME FELT LIKE WE GOT KICKED OUT OF PROM BUT WE GOOD. [GIO] WITH ME. I’M A HAPPY MAN. F*CK EM.”
Though Carti didn’t disclose a reason for the alleged ban, his exclusion has sparked speculation, particularly given his long-standing friendship with A$AP Rocky—who served as one of this year’s event co-chairs.
Silence From the Met Gala & Anna Wintour
Neither the Met Gala’s organizing body nor Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour—who oversees the prestigious fashion fundraiser—has publicly addressed Carti’s claim. If true, Carti would join a rare and controversial list of banned guests, a group that reportedly includes former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The secrecy surrounding Met Gala guest lists has always fueled intrigue. However, a ban against one of hip-hop’s most fashion-forward artists stands out, especially in a year where the theme celebrated avant-garde style and risk-taking creatives.
A Missed Fashion Moment for Carti
According to Billboard, this year would’ve marked an ideal debut for Playboi Carti, whose highly anticipated Music album took over the charts earlier this year. The project debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, with all 30 tracks entering the Hot 100—cementing Carti’s dominance in 2025’s rap landscape.
Known for his boundary-pushing fashion and chaotic, punk-inspired energy, Carti seemed like a natural fit for the Met Gala red carpet. But instead of posing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, he made his own statement elsewhere.
Carti shared a hotel photoshoot with creative partner Gio, donning a Chrome Hearts beanie and edgy leather ensemble. The duo even recreated a now-iconic 2018 hallway shot originally captured by Kanye West and Kim Kardashian, underscoring Carti’s flair for dramatic visuals—even without the official Met spotlight.
Carti Unbothered by the Snub
Despite being shut out of fashion’s biggest night, Carti didn’t appear bitter. Doubling down on Instagram, he reiterated:
“MET GALA BANNED ME FELT LIKE WE GOT KICKED OUT OF PROM BUT WE GOOD. [GIO] WITH ME. I’M A HAPPY MAN. F*CK EM.”
His defiant tone reflects Carti’s signature anti-establishment attitude, which has earned him both praise and controversy throughout his career.
Met Gala 2025: Behind the Scenes
The 2025 Met Gala remained its usual blend of exclusivity and spectacle. With its strict no-phone and no-smoking policies still in place, the event continues to guard its mystique. Still, that didn’t stop Megan Thee Stallion from sneaking in a few behind-the-scenes phone moments, capturing playful footage with Doechii and basketball star Angel Reese.
Fashion moments dominated the night, but Carti’s absence didn’t go unnoticed—especially among fans who hoped to see what daring outfit he would bring to the red carpet.
What’s Next for Playboi Carti?
While the Met Gala may be behind him, Carti has bigger things ahead. The Opium Records boss is currently teasing his next album, Baby Boi, which fans believe will usher in a new era for the rapper both musically and visually.
As Carti continues to push the boundaries of music and fashion from the outside looking in, it’s clear he doesn’t need the Met Gala’s stamp of approval to make waves.
