Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, movie producer, and activist, will co-chair the highly anticipated 2025 Met Gala, which takes place today, Monday, May 5, at 6 p.m. ET at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. Renowned as the biggest night in fashion, this year’s gala honors Black culture and style through the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” Hamilton joins a star-studded lineup of co-chairs, including Colman Domingo, Pharrell Williams, A$AP Rocky, and honorary chair LeBron James, alongside Vogue’s editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, who has led the event since 1995.
The Met Gala is an exclusive annual fundraiser that draws the most influential figures from music, film, fashion, sports, and popular culture. Known for its elaborate themes such as “Punk Chaos,” “Heavenly Bodies,” and “Camp,” the gala challenges attendees and designers alike to push creative boundaries. This year, the celebration’s theme draws inspiration from Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book, Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity, spotlighting Black excellence and fashion heritage. The event begins with a glamorous red carpet at 6 p.m. ET, providing fans worldwide a chance to glimpse the dazzling arrivals before the private festivities commence.
Lewis Hamilton’s involvement as a co-chair marks a significant addition to his diverse career, which has spanned global sports, activism, and fashion. His first Met Gala appearance came in 2015, and in 2021 he made headlines by purchasing an entire table to promote emerging Black creatives. Hamilton’s deep connection to fashion has grown over the years, highlighted by his recent appointment as Dior’s brand ambassador in July 2024. As co-chair, Hamilton’s responsibilities expand beyond the spotlight; he assists Anna Wintour and fellow chairs in crafting the evening’s vision, contributing to the guest experience, decor, and even menu planning. His multifaceted role reflects his commitment to elevating both Black culture and style within this prestigious event.
The 2025 Met Gala continues the tradition of featuring influential co-chairs who help guide the evening’s tone and activities. Past co-chairs have included athletes like Serena Williams and Roger Federer, as well as actors such as Timothée Chalamet and Blake Lively, the latter often celebrated for her stunning red carpet appearances. The host committee this year further emphasizes Black talent, featuring Olympic gymnast Simone Biles, actress Ayo Edebiri, rapper Doechii, pop star Tyla, acclaimed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and playwright Jeremy O. Harris. Music icons Usher, Janelle Monáe, and André 3000 also join the committee in partnership with Vogue and GQ, who collaborated in April on a star-studded photoshoot series highlighting these influential figures.
Access to the Met Gala is strictly by invitation, managed by Anna Wintour who curates a carefully selected guest list. This year, speculation surrounds the absence of supermodel Naomi Campbell amid rumors of a long-standing feud with Wintour. Tickets are famously costly, with individual seats estimated around £56,000 and tables beginning at $350,000 (over £263,000). Nevertheless, funds raised at the gala play a critical role in supporting the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, helping to sustain its yearly activities and exhibitions.
For those unable to attend in person or watch on US platforms like Peacock and E! Online, Vogue will livestream the event on its digital channels, with its YouTube page serving as a prime location to catch live coverage of the red carpet’s iconic fashion moments. The event, often referred to as the “Super Bowl of Fashion,” captures global attention, as social media buzz hotspots showcase the evening’s most daring and elegant designs. Emma Chamberlain returns as Vogue’s special correspondent to interview attendees on the red carpet, continuing her popular role since her breakout debut in 2021, adding fresh energy and insight to the broadcast.
The 2025 Met Gala’s spotlight on Black style through this meticulously curated theme carries powerful cultural significance. By showcasing the rich history and influence of Black fashion, the event not only honors artistic creativity but also fosters deeper appreciation and understanding across industries. Lewis Hamilton’s co-chairing role amplifies this message, merging his passion for equality with his fashion expertise to lead one of the year’s most high-profile cultural celebrations. Looking ahead, the gala’s success is expected to encourage further inclusion and innovation within the fashion world while reinforcing the importance of representation at such prestigious levels.
