PeeCee won’t walk the Met Gala 2026 carpet this year?

Priyanka will reportedly skip the event due to prior work commitments. Reports suggest she may be filming Varanasi in Antarctica

Aanchal Chaudhary

The first Monday of May usually guarantees a show-stopping appearance from global actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas. But this year, fans tuning in to the glamour of the Met Gala 2026 might notice her absence, and there’s a very real reason behind it. According to reports by Variety India, Priyanka will not be attending the 2026 edition of the Met Gala, scheduled for May 4 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. While speculation had been swirling for weeks about her appearance, it now seems her calendar has other plans. Reports suggest that the actress is currently tied up with prior work commitments, making it difficult for her to be present at fashion’s biggest night.

Furthermore, a recent feature by British Vogue hinted that Priyanka could be “otherwise engaged on the first Monday in May – in Antarctica, no less, where she is filming Varanasi.” Speaking about the theme, she shared, “I mean… What? You can do anything with that! And, honestly, being a spectator can be just as fun.”

Manish Malhotra brings drama 

Indian designer Manish Malhotra stole the spotlight at the Met Gala 2026 Pre-Party in a black ensemble with a tulle blazer and floral brooch. Previously, he also confirmed designing for Karan Johar’s Met Gala debut, hinting at more fashion moments to follow on the main red carpet.