Diehard New York Knicks fan Ben Stiller was roasted on social media for skipping Monday’s playoff game to attend the Met Gala 2026.
“If Ben Stiller picked the Met Gala over Game 1 of the Knicks game he may have to turn in his man card,” Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy wrote via X Monday night.
Sports Illustrated writer Jimmy Traina also weighed in, tweeting, “Here’s what I need to know. Would Ben Stiller blow off tonight’s Knicks game for the Met Gala if it was Game 7 and not Game 1. Please answer @BenStiller. This is important. Thank you.”
Despite some fans’ disappointment in the actor’s decision, Stiller addressed the tough choice on the star-studded red carpet.
“Right now I wish I was in Madison Square Garden,” Stiller admitted to USA Today. “But it’s beautiful to be here, too.”
The actor and his wife, Christine Taylor, also made sure to give a nod to the basketball team with their ensembles. He wore a black suit with an orange tie while Taylor stunned in a royal blue gown designed by Bibhu Mohapatra.
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“We are representing for the Knicks. We are wearing our Knicks colors,” Taylor said during an interview with Vogue.
“If you can’t be at Madison Square Garden watching the Knicks … this is a great second choice,” Stiller added. “This is an incredible event supporting the Costume Institute and the arts in New York. And we’ve been here a couple of times.”
The “Meet the Fockers” star was also spotted mouthing “Knicks in six” as he made his way on the carpet.
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While Stiller, 60, chose to skip Monday’s game to attend fashion’s biggest night, fellow diehard Knicks fan Timothée Chalamet still showed up for the team.
He let his girlfriend, Kylie Jenner, attend the Met Gala solo.
The “Dune” actor posted an Instagram Story showcasing his courtside view at Madison Square Garden Monday night and was all smiles as the Knicks defeated the Philadelphia 76ers, 137-98.
“Gotta respect Timothée Chalamet skipping the Met Gala to watch the Knicks,” one fan wrote via X.
Stiller and Chalamet, 30, have been spotted sitting courtside together at Madison Square Garden and cheering on the Knicks on multiple occasions.
Last year, for example, the duo attended Game 1 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals to watch the New York Knicks vs. the Indiana Pacers.
