2026 Academy Museum Gala Raises $14M, Sparks Fashion Debate Over Bold Choices
The sixth annual Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles raised over $14 million to support the museum’s exhibitions and community programs. The event, co-chaired by Tom Ford, Robert Rodriguez, Steven Spielberg, and Kate Capshaw, honored John Carpenter, Charlize Theron, and Colman Domingo. Taylor Swift closed the evening with a live performance, including the first public rendition of 'The Fate of Ophelia.' While the event was a financial success, fashion coverage highlighted a stark divide in red carpet reception, with some attendees praised for elegance and others criticized for controversial or costume-like outfits.