In the high-stakes world of the Met Gala, where every stitch and sequin is scrutinized by millions, even the biggest stars are prone to the occasional fashion emergency. However, when you have a friend like Hugh Jackman in your corner, a wardrobe malfunction becomes a masterclass in chivalry. The Greatest Showman star recently shared a charming anecdote from the 2026 Met Gala, revealing how he stepped in to assist Blake Lively with a dress mishap—but not before ensuring he had the metaphorical green light from her husband, Ryan Reynolds.
A Moment of Red Carpet Chivalry
During a candid appearance on Today With Jenna & Sheinelle, the 57-year-old actor recounted the behind-the-scenes drama that unfolded at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. While the red carpet is often perceived as a place of stiff competition and intense posing, Jackman’s story serves as a reminder of the genuine friendships that exist beneath the Hollywood veneer. As he explained, Lively approached him with a request for assistance regarding a tricky hook on her gown.
“There was another cool moment—I’m literally, as I’m saying it, thinking maybe you shouldn’t say this—but Blake, my good friend Blake Lively, goes, ‘Dude, I need some help with the dress. I think there’s a hook in there,’” Jackman recalled. It was a classic red carpet predicament, but one that required a delicate touch and, in Jackman’s mind, a quick check-in with the person who knows Lively best.
The Mental Check-In With Ryan Reynolds
Despite the fact that Ryan Reynolds was not in attendance at the 2026 Met Gala, the bond between the Deadpool & Wolverine costars is clearly strong enough to transcend physical distance. Jackman joked that before he offered his assistance to Lively, he performed a quick mental audit to ensure he was respecting the boundaries of his friend’s marriage.
“I’m like, ‘OK,’ I’m like, ‘Ryan, is this cool? Checking. Are we good?’” Jackman laughed during the interview. This humorous admission highlights the playful dynamic between the trio. While the gesture was purely helpful, Jackman’s instinct to “ask” Reynolds—even in his own head—speaks volumes about the respect he holds for his longtime friend and collaborator.
Navigating a High-Profile Night
The 2026 Met Gala was a significant evening for all parties involved, marked by personal milestones and public appearances. For Hugh Jackman, the night was a chance to step out with his girlfriend, Sutton Foster. The couple, who went public with their relationship in January 2025 following their respective divorces from Deborra-Lee Furness and Ted Griffin, looked every bit the Hollywood power couple as they navigated the red carpet together.
Blake Lively, meanwhile, attended the event solo, arriving shortly after major news broke regarding her professional life. The actress had recently reached a settlement in a high-profile legal dispute with Justin Baldoni concerning their 2024 film, It Ends With Us. Despite the intensity of the news cycle surrounding her, Lively appeared focused on the glamour of the evening, relying on the support of friends like Jackman to keep the night running smoothly.
Key Takeaways from the Gala Incident
- Friendship First: Even at the most exclusive events, stars rely on their inner circles for support.
- Professional Boundaries: Jackman’s humorous “check-in” with Reynolds underscores the importance of mutual respect in celebrity friendships.
- Red Carpet Reality: Behind the polished photos, celebrities deal with the same wardrobe malfunctions as everyone else.
- New Chapters: The 2026 gala served as a backdrop for both personal and professional transitions for the stars involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Ryan Reynolds attend the 2026 Met Gala?
No, Ryan Reynolds did not accompany Blake Lively to the event. She attended the gala solo.
Who did Hugh Jackman attend the Met Gala with?
Hugh Jackman attended the event with his girlfriend, Sutton Foster.
Why was Blake Lively in the news during the Met Gala?
Lively had just settled a contentious legal battle with Justin Baldoni regarding their 2024 film, It Ends With Us.
Is Hugh Jackman still close with Ryan Reynolds?
Yes, the two remain close friends and frequent collaborators, often sharing lighthearted banter in interviews and on social media.
Ultimately, the story of the Met Gala hook is less about the dress and more about the enduring nature of friendship in the spotlight. Whether it is navigating a complex legal settlement or simply fixing a stubborn piece of couture, having a reliable friend like Hugh Jackman makes the pressures of fame feel just a little bit more manageable.
InfluencerBlogger
