The clash between the Metropolitan Museum of Art's annual costume display and the New York Knicks' playoff push forced a public reckoning for celebrity fans on Monday night. Ben Stiller, a well-documented supporter of the Knicks, opted for the glitz of the Met Gala over the hardwood of Madison Square Garden, a decision that drew considerable attention and, according to reports, a fair amount of online dissection.
While Stiller navigated the red carpet, fellow actor Timothée Chalamet made the inverse choice, forsaking the Met Gala entirely to attend Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals between the Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers. The Knicks went on to secure a resounding victory, 137-98.
A Night of Divergent Allegiances
Stiller, visibly sporting Knicks colors with an orange tie, appeared at the Met Gala while spiritually, if not physically, at Madison Square Garden. He even offered a prediction for the series – six fingers, signaling a belief in a six-game Knicks victory. This occurred as social media buzzed with commentary, with some questioning his dedication, particularly given the high stakes of a playoff game. One observer noted Stiller's absence from NBC's on-air shout-out to celebrities present at the game.
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Conversely, Chalamet, often a fixture courtside, was present for the Knicks' dominant performance. His attendance stood in stark contrast to Stiller's gala appearance, highlighting a scheduling conflict that has become a recurring theme for celebrity attendees in both spheres.
Backlash and Defense
The choice has sparked debate, with fans online roasting Stiller for skipping a playoff opener. Critics suggested he could have found ways to watch the game, perhaps on his phone, while attending the gala. However, some staunch supporters defended Stiller, asserting that his long-standing commitment to the Knicks remains undisputed, even referring to him as "top dawg" in the fan hierarchy. Stiller himself, when prompted by someone shouting about the Knicks at the gala, responded with a simple declaration: "I know who I am."
Contextualizing the Conflict
This isn't the first time Stiller's allegiances have been tested by this calendar overlap. In 2025, he famously skipped the Met Gala for a crucial Knicks playoff game against the Celtics, which the Knicks ultimately won. His connection to the team reportedly stretches back decades, adding a layer of historical weight to his fervent, albeit sometimes inconveniently timed, support. With Game 2 scheduled for Wednesday night, it's widely anticipated that Stiller will be present at Madison Square Garden, trading the Met Gala's sartorial statements for the Knicks' on-court intensity.
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