Celebrity3 min(s) read
Published 15:17 05 May 2026 GMT
Bad Bunny had fans doing a double-take at the 2026 Met Gala after stepping onto the red carpet with a dramatic transformation.
The Puerto Rican star took a completely different approach for fashion’s biggest night by aging himself by around 50 years.
His look was part of a wider response to this year’s theme - 'Fashion is Art'- which encouraged guests to explore the human body in all its forms as part of the Costume Institute’s "Costume Art" exhibition.
The 32-year-old, whose full name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, appeared with white hair, wrinkles, and an older physique as he walked the carpet with a cane.
The look was designed by make-up artist Mike Marino, known for his work on films including Coming 2 America, The Batman, and A Different Man.
Although many were initially shocked, viewers were quick to appreciate the inspiration behind the look.
"Bad Bunny is clearly referencing 'THE AGING BODY,' which is one of the body types represented inside the Costume Institute's exhibition this year, which is all about different body types in art," one wrote on X.
Another shared: "So Bad Bunny arrived as an older version of himself. I approve of his performance art."
A third added: "This exhibition exploring themes like aging and the aging body, things overlooked in traditional art and fashion. fashion can still be depicted at any life stage. i love!"
The 'Tití Me Preguntó' musician spoke to Vogue about his transformation, joking that it took him '53 years exactly' to get ready.
"It took a little bit but it was worth it. I hope it looks good," he said.
"I always try to do something different and this day of the Met is the perfect day to explore and recreate and express yourself in a different way so that’s what I’m doing tonight.
"I’m glad to be here with you and everyone here."
Bad Bunny wasn’t the only guest making a statement.
The Met Gala once again proved to be a showcase of bold interpretations of the theme.
French influencer Lena Mahfouf also drew major attention with a daring sculptural gown that left little to the imagination.
The Burc Akyol design featured a sculpted metallic bodice shaped like two silver hands across her chest, exposing her shoulders, stomach, and back.
She paired it with a pale blue draped skirt that sat low on her hips.
Meanwhile, Heidi Klum sparked mixed reactions with her dramatic 'living statue' look, which was also created by Marino and inspired by classical works like the Veiled Christ by Giuseppe Sammartino and the Veiled Vestal by Raffaele Monti.
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