Anna Wintour is speaking out after intense public criticism surrounding Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez being named the lead sponsors of the 2026 Met Gala. The controversy erupted earlier this month when Vogue confirmed the Amazon founder and his wife would fund next year’s gala and the accompanying Costume Institute exhibition.
The announcement was met with immediate backlash across social media, with critics accusing organizers of allowing extreme wealth to overshadow the tradition and artistry of the event. Many argued that Bezos and Sánchez — both known for their immense fortune and high-profile lifestyle — are not appropriate representatives of the fashion and arts community.
Wintour Defends Bezos and Sánchez
In a new interview with CNN, Wintour defended the couple and praised their involvement.
“I think Lauren is going to be a wonderful asset to the museum and to the event,” she said. “We’re very grateful for her incredible generosity. And she’s a great lover of costume and obviously of fashion. So we’re thrilled she’s part of the night.”
The longtime Met Gala chair — who has led the event since 1995 — pushed back against the wave of negative reactions circulating online.
Online Backlash Intensifies
The controversy first escalated when the Metropolitan Museum of Art released an Instagram video unveiling the 2026 theme, “Costume Art,” only to reveal in the final frame that Bezos and Sánchez would serve as the event’s official sponsors.
The comments section turned harsh within minutes:
“The Metropolitan Museum of Art, SOLD!!! to the highest bidder. How distasteful.”
“Great theme, but stop platforming Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez.”
“Absolutely skipping this one.”
Others mocked the pairing, joking that designers might use Amazon Prime delivery for red carpet looks.
A Very Expensive Partnership
Last year’s Met Gala cost an estimated $6 million, a relatively small amount compared to Bezos’ estimated $250 billion net worth. Critics have argued that cultural institutions should not depend on billionaires whose companies have been widely criticized for workplace conditions and environmental impact.
Bezos and Sánchez married in an extravagant Venice ceremony earlier this year, which also fueled commentary about wealth, optics, and privilege.
Wintour’s Future at the Gala
Although Wintour stepped down as Vogue’s U.S. editor-in-chief in June after 37 years, she remains Condé Nast’s global chief content officer and Vogue’s global editorial director — meaning she will continue steering the Met Gala.
The upcoming exhibition plans to showcase how fashion interacts with global art forms, pairing historical garments and museum objects to explore political, aesthetic, and symbolic narratives.
For now, Wintour is clear: Bezos and Sánchez are not going anywhere — despite public outrage.
