Ben Stiller Skips Knicks Game 1 for Met Gala, Draws Backlash

Ben Stiller, a longtime New York Knicks superfan, attended the 2026 Met Gala on Monday night instead of the team's Game 1 playoff victory over the Philadelphia 76ers at Madison Square Garden, prompting backlash from fans on social media.

The Knicks dominated the 76ers 137-98 in the Eastern Conference semifinals opener, but Stiller walked the Metropolitan Museum of Art red carpet with his wife, Christine Taylor. Photos of the couple quickly spread online during the game, igniting criticism over his divided loyalties. Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy posted on X, "If Ben Stiller picked the Met Gala over Game 1 of the Knicks game he may have to turn in his man card." Sports Illustrated writer Jimmy Traina questioned the actor's priorities, asking on X whether Stiller would skip a potential Game 7 for the event.

Stiller addressed the conflict directly on the red carpet. "Right now I wish I was at the Knicks game," he told reporters. He added that the gala supports the Costume Institute and New York arts, calling it "an incredible event." Taylor noted they coordinated outfits in Knicks colors: Stiller in a black suit with an orange tie, and her in a royal blue gown by Bibhu...