Celebrities and Politicians Slam Jeff Bezos’ Met Gala Role Amid Tax and Labor Criticism

The 2026 Met Gala has sparked controversy after Jeff Bezos and his wife, Lauren Sánchez Bezos, were named honorary co-chairs and financial sponsors of the event. High-profile figures, including celebrities and politicians, have publicly criticized the decision, amplifying concerns over Bezos’ wealth, Amazon’s labor practices, and tax avoidance.

Celebrities Speak Out Against Bezos’ Met Gala Role

Mark Ruffalo shared a powerful video of Amazon warehouse worker Mary Hill, which was projected on a wall in New York City on Sunday night. In the video, Hill criticized Bezos, stating,

‘If it weren’t for every associate in every Amazon facility, he wouldn’t have all those zeros behind his name.’

Taraji P. Henson also voiced her disapproval, commenting on a viral video that called out celebrities attending the gala despite Bezos’ involvement. She wrote,

‘I am so confused by some ppl that are going. I am just like WTF ARE WE DOING!?!?!?!’

Bella Hadid and Cara Delevingne joined the criticism by liking a video that highlighted celebrities wearing an “ICE OUT” pin on other red carpets while still planning to attend the Bezos-backed event.

Politicians Join the Backlash

Sen. Elizabeth Warren took to social media to criticize Bezos’ Met Gala sponsorship, stating:

‘If Jeff Bezos can drop $10 million to sponsor the Met Gala, he can afford to pay his fair share in taxes.’

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced he would not attend the event, breaking tradition as previous mayors, including Eric Adams, had participated.

Backlash Over Bezos’ Role as Met Gala Sponsor

The controversy began in February when Bezos and his wife were announced as the financial sponsors of the Met Gala. Critics quickly labeled the event the “Amazon Prime Gala” or “Bezos Ball,” with online backlash intensifying as the gala approached.

Star-Studded Met Gala Lineup Remains Unchanged

Despite the criticism, the 2026 Met Gala will still feature a star-studded lineup. Nicole Kidman, Beyoncé, Venus Williams, and Anna Wintour serve as official co-chairs, while Zoe Kravitz, Sabrina Carpenter, Doja Cat, Teyana Taylor, Lena Dunham, Lisa, Sam Smith, and A’ja Wilson represent the host committee.