On the night of the 2025 MET Gala, New York City’s cultural epicenter split in two. One-half glittered at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The other half—sweaty, anxious, and hopeful—was glued to a screen watching the Knicks win a dramatic overtime battle against the Celtics, 108-105. Timothée Chalamet was firmly in the second camp, skipping the MET Gala.
From Courtside to Couchside: Chalamet’s Basketball Trail
The actor, a frequent presence at MSG, skipped fashion’s most exclusive event to stay home and watch Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. Instead of joining girlfriend Kylie Jenner on the MET Gala steps, Timothée Chalamet posted clips of himself following the Knicks’ rollercoaster game on Instagram.
Over the past few weeks, he’s been spotted courtside at multiple sports events, including:
- 🏀 The Knicks’ Game 2 against the Detroit Pistons (April 21) at Madison Square Garden
- 🏀 Game 3 of the same series against the Detroit Pistons (April 24) in Detroit
- 🏀 The Lakers vs. Timberwolves game in Los Angeles (April 30), with Kylie Jenner by his side
- 🏎️ Miami Grand Prix, when Formula 1 took over the city (May 4)
During the MET Gala, Timothée Chalamet Was Active on Instagram
Even when he’s not in the arena, he’s watching—and posting. His Instagram story during Game 1 showed him in a hoodie, reacting to every play like any die-hard fan. When the Knicks won, he posted “shaking. What a win.” Then deleted it. But the internet noticed.
Jalen Brunson over the MET Gala? Timothée Chalamet made his choice
In a city where basketball loyalty is part of the culture, Chalamet’s decision resonated. Skipping the MET Gala, a global event stacked with A-list stars, designers, and photographers, isn’t just skipping a party; it’s choosing the pulse of the city over the flashbulbs of fame, which makes Timothée Chalamet a true Knicks fan.
Chalamet’s move added unexpected authenticity to a man known for being at the intersection of fashion and film. For once, he wasn’t in Ferragamo or Chanel, he was in Knicks gear, emotionally invested, and completely relatable.
It’s not new for celebrities to attend games, but Chalamet represents a different kind of fandom. He’s not there to be seen—he’s there because he cares. And in a playoff run where the Knicks are showing real promise, his presence (or absence) feels symbolic.