Monday
The Met Gala took place in New York on Monday night, and while it might seem like it came together by chance, it really struck a chord against Donald Trump. The theme, intended to highlight the Costume Institute’s new exhibition, was Black Dandism. This certainly feels like a bold rebuttal, pushing back against Trump’s executive order that sought to end initiatives aimed at supporting “underrepresented groups.” It was an impressive event, even if the theme had been planned before Trump’s reelection.
Interestingly, the occasion doubled as a $75,000 fundraiser, though it felt somewhat disconnected from the political undertones. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez made waves with her “Rich the Rich” slogan, but it seemed like her core message got a bit lost in the mix. Harris attended wearing a striking black and white Eve Kamara gown, while her husband donned a Brunello Cucinelli tuxedo.
Other highlights of the night included a fabulous floor-length cape from Colman Domingo, Madonna’s return in a white suit and cigar (after a seven-year absence), and the stunning ensembles worn by Janelle Monae and Whoopi Goldberg. Meanwhile, Anna Wintour, the organizer and host, had her annual moment in the spotlight sans sunglasses, addressing accusations about racial insensitivity in Vogue with a promise of commitment to change.
Tuesday
I say this gently (maybe not): What’s happened to Steve Carell’s Gnusher? The actor is set to feature in the new Netflix series, The Four Season, created by Tina Fey and Tracy Wigfield. That’s pretty much all there is to say about it.
The show seems to drag on and lacks a connection to contemporary life, which, I mean, it’s Tina Fey, so there’s some hope, right?
But really, the standout here is Carell’s astonishing aura. It’s like an old joke about a character whose hairstyles get increasingly elaborate as the show goes on. At this point in his career, people are definitely noticing him more than ever.
Wednesday
Barry Diller, a well-known businessman and media mogul, made a courageous announcement at 83, coming out as “openly gay.” He plans to share his journey in future memoirs, noting the struggles he faced while hiding his sexuality, which often hampered his personal fulfillment. Diller has been a billionaire since the 1990s, after all.
It’s hard to say what the real deal is with his marriage to Diane von Furstenberg. However, many have criticized the tendency to downplay sexuality for the sake of social acceptance—yet everyone’s journey is unique. He seems to recognize that, in excerpts from his book, as he reflects on how his choices have historically contrasted with courage.
Thursday
Speaking of flashy moments, the term “conclave” has escaped our vocabulary for years, but now it’s been all the buzz! Before the new Pope was elected, some of the 133 Cardinals—many of whom were attending for the first time—watched a film about the Conclave process as a sort of introduction.
With possibilities swirling around who the first American Pope might be, Cardinal Robert Francis spoke in Spanish, drawing attention for calling his Italian “American Accent”—a bit cheeky, perhaps, since there was no English offered. Meanwhile, many are wondering if the New York Times might ask a critical question: White Sox or Chicago Cubs? Speculation is ripe about living in a world where the Pope might even have a Costco membership.
Friday
The revelation that Brits apologize up to nine times daily is a classic example of how underreported certain behaviors can be. An investigation revealed that 90% of 2,000 respondents admitted to apologizing daily, even when they weren’t at fault—resulting in an astonishing 3,285 apologies per year. Common triggers? Just passing someone in line, needing help at a self-checkout, or even an innocent sneeze.
