Megan Thee Stallion insists that she has not been “banned” from the Met Gala. The clarification comes amid widespread speculation across fashion and entertainment media outlets.
The 30-year-old rapper — whose real name is Megan Jovon Ruth Pete — attended the annual event in early May, wearing a a custom-made silver sequin gown with a white fur coat but defied the event’s rules about cell phones by taking a video for social media, although she has now insisted that she was not removed from all future iterations of the biggest night in fashion over her actions. The custom gown was specially designed to complement the event’s elegant aesthetic.
She told PEOPLE: “No. We’re gonna dead these rumors right now, OK? People are like, ‘Oh my God, Megan, you got banned from the Met Gala. No, I didn’t, babe. Like that’s not true. Y’all made that up and ran with it. They love making [stuff up]. Anna [Wintour] loves me, babe. That’s why my phone was out.” The interview took place during a recent public appearance where the rapper addressed several topics.
The video quickly went viral and a host of other stars featured in it. The clip spread rapidly across multiple social media platforms, becoming a trending topic.
Speaking in the video — which was posted to TikTok — she said: “We’re not supposed to have our phones, but we’re doing it [anyway]. These behind-the-scenes moments provided fans with rare access to the exclusive event.
“I snuck my phone in!” Her candid admission resonated with followers who appreciated the insider perspective of the notoriously private gala.
“Black-ish” actress Tracee Ellis Ross popped up in the background, where she explained: “We’re not supposed to have our phones. But we’re doing it!” Ellis Ross has been a frequent attendee at the prestigious fashion event.
In the clip, the “Roc Steady” hitmaker was also joined by Doechii and Angel Reese and the trio set about giving their opinions about the hors d’oeuvres that were on offer at the glamorous do. Their impromptu food reviews became one of the highlight moments from the video.
At first, Megan said: “Cornbread and caviar, it was good!” The unique food pairing reflected the gala’s approach to creative cuisine.
However, when it came to the vegan smoked salmon, Megan wasn’t so keen and simply noted it was “funny looking.” The event is known for featuring innovative menu items curated by renowned chefs.
But “Anxiety” singer Doechii was not keen on the truffle cheese while Chicago Sky player Reese claimed that the chicken curry pastries were “a little dry.” Their honest opinions offered a refreshing glimpse into the high-end catering rarely critiqued by celebrity attendees.
The whole event was put together by Wintour, the legendary Vogue editor, who last year noted that her phone ban had been put in place because she wanted the guests to mingle and have “wonderful conversations” without feeling the need to constantly take pictures. This policy has been maintained as part of Wintour’s vision for the gathering.
Speaking on the “Today” show, she said: “It’s often wonderful to hear, after dinner, people say, ‘Oh we had the most wonderful conversations.'” Many guests have praised this aspect of the event, highlighting the opportunity to connect without digital distractions.
“So that’s the idea,” Wintour said, “that life can exist without a picture on your cell phone.” Her philosophy emphasizes genuine human interaction over digital documentation.
Wintour is also fairly strict on the kind of food that is served at the Met Gala, and has previously banned chives, onions and garlic from all meals that are served at the event. These culinary guidelines are well-established among the event planners and catering staff.
She explained: “Well, those are three things I’m not particularly fond of.” This personal preference has become one of the many famous rules that define the exclusive annual fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute.
Despite the phone controversy, Megan‘s appearance at the gala received positive attention from fashion commentators, with her ensemble featured prominently in coverage of the event. Her relationship with Wintour and the Met Gala organization remains strong, contrary to the circulating rumors that prompted her recent statement.
The rapper’s clarification has effectively put to rest speculation about her standing with the prestigious event, which she has attended multiple times throughout her career. Fashion insiders note that Megan’s presence adds contemporary cultural relevance to the historic gathering, making her a valuable guest for the event’s continued prominence in popular culture.
