Billy Porter Opts Out of the 2024 Met Gala Following Personal Tragedy

Why Billy Porter Is Skipping the 2024 Met Gala

Mike Marsland/WireImage

Billy Porter won't be at the Met Gala on May 6 because he is grieving the loss of his mother, Cloerinda Jean Johnson, who passed away in February.

At the TIME100 Gala on April 25, Porter, 54, shared with E! News that he recently lost his mom. He mentioned that he needs to focus on taking care of himself during this difficult time, which is why he won't be attending the event.

Fans of the Met are well aware of the effort and thought put into creating a stunning look for the event. Many attendees spend months carefully planning their red carpet outfits. Porter mentioned that he needs a break, humorously saying, "Daddy's tired."

In a joint statement with his sister, Mary Martha Ford, Porter publicly shared the sad news of his mother's passing at the age of 79.

"We were by her side when she passed away, held in our arms," the siblings shared on Instagram on February 29. "Despite her physical challenges, Mom lived life to the fullest. She embodied true Christian values, and her unconditional love is a model that the world can learn from."

Why Billy Porter Is Skipping the 2024 Met Gala

Billy Porter and his mother Courtesy of Billy Porter/Instagram

Their statement concluded, “Her example is what we continue to strive for.”

Porter has become a regular at the Met Gala due to his extravagant outfits every year. In 2019, during the theme "Camp: Notes on Fashion," he made a grand entrance inspired by ancient Egypt. He was carried in on a litter by six shirtless men and then showcased a catsuit with 10-foot wings and a 24-karat gold headpiece. The ensemble, created by his stylist Sam Ratelle and design duo The Blondes, took five hours to prepare for the event.

On the red carpet, Porter shared that he wanted wings to fly. He aimed to embody the gods, the sun god, and enlightenment with his look. His goal was to spread positivity and joy through his outfit. In his words, "We need a little bit of that."

With a strong foundation in theater and performance art, it's no wonder that Porter was particularly drawn to the theme of 2019.

He expressed, "Camp is sometimes seen in a negative light. What I appreciate about showcasing it at the Met Gala, and giving context to camp, is that it brings respect to a term and style that is often dismissed or seen as tacky. When executed well, it represents a pinnacle of fashion and art."

Editor's P/S:

Billy Porter's absence from the Met Gala this year is a poignant reminder of the importance of self-care and the fragility of life. It is heartbreaking to hear that he is grieving the loss of his mother, who clearly held a special place in his heart. Porter's decision to prioritize his well-being over a high-profile event is a testament to his strength and resilience.

Porter's past Met Gala looks have been nothing short of spectacular, and his presence will undoubtedly be missed. However, his absence also serves as an opportunity to reflect on the true purpose of the event. While the Met Gala is a celebration of fashion and creativity, it is also an occasion to raise awareness for important causes. Porter's decision to use his platform to address the importance of self-care and grief is a powerful reminder that even in the midst of glamour and spectacle, humanity and compassion must always come first.