Blake Lively made a grand return to the Met Gala for the first time in four years, but her ascent up the iconic steps was marked by an awkward exchange with impatient paparazzi.
Stunning Gown and Awkward Moments
The actress dazzled in a 2006 archival Versace gown described as a "sunrise and sunset watercolour," featuring a massive train that flowed behind her, reaffirming her reputation as the queen of the big train. As she approached the beige steps, Met staff rushed to lift her train to assist her movement, but she politely declined, telling them they could "leave it," as captured on Vogue's live stream of the event.
Upon reaching her designated spot on the stairs, Lively struggled to adjust and secure her heavy dress into place. The paparazzi, eager to capture her photo, began yelling out to her. In response, Lively pointed a finger at them and said, "Hold on."
Paparazzi Persistence
Despite her request, the photographers continued to call out relentlessly, shouting directives such as "over the shoulder Blake." Eventually, Lively managed to wrangle her fairy floss-coloured gown, apologised, and explained to the impatient crowd that her team had "worked so hard on (this) I have to make it look nice."
Behind the Ensemble
After reaching the top of the steps, Lively was interviewed by La La Anthony, offering insight into her extravagant outfit. "It's an honour to wear this gorgeous gown, it looks like a sunrise and sunset watercolour," she said. She also revealed that her bag featured watercolour artwork done by her four children, whom she shares with Ryan Reynolds, bringing her "comfort" throughout the monumental evening.
Legal Settlement
Lively's appearance came hours after the resolution of a long-running and ugly lawsuit between her and former colleague Justin Baldoni, involving allegations of sexual harassment on the set of It Ends With Us. The civil case was settled two weeks before a trial was set to begin in New York. Lively had claimed that Baldoni conspired with publicists to pre-emptively destroy her reputation after she privately accused him of sexually harassing her on set. In a joint statement issued through their lawyers, the pair said, "It is our sincere hope that this brings closure and allows all involved to move forward constructively and in peace, including a respectful environment online."
