Karl Lagerfeld’s Cat Choupette Skipped the Met Gala Red Carpet

Historically, the Met Gala has always been one of the most unexpected red carpets of the year, where the fashion elite show off their most out-of-the-box looks and statement-making styles.

Considering that tonight's event is being held in honor of the Costume Institute's retrospective on the legendary but controversial German fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld, longtime Lagerfeld fans and cat lovers alike were abuzz over the idea that Lagerfeld's beloved cat, Choupette might be in attendance. In April, Choupette’s agent, Lucas Berullier, confirmed that she had received an invitation to the event, telling the New York Post, "It’s an event in honor of the legacy of Karl, and Choupette is obviously a central part of the legacy."

However, on the day of the event, Choupette's official Instagram (naturally) shared a post revealing she wouldn't be paying homage to her late owner at the event.

"A million thanks to all of you my fans, animal lovers & Daddy's admirers. You have all shown the kindest enthusiasm and unconditional support, I say MERCI!" the post read. "Many people invited me to walk the red carpet of the #METGALA2023 in tribute to Daddy, but we preferred to stay peacefully & cozy at home. We pay tribute to my Daddy every day since his parting and we are very moved to see one more day dedicated to him. With love, forever Choupette"

Originally the pet of Lagerfeld's friend Baptiste Giabiconi, Lagerfeld reportedly became attached to Choupette after cat-sitting her for Giabiconi in 2011—so much so that Giabiconi ultimately gave her to the late designer as a gift. "No one could give me a more beautiful gift," Giabiconi recalled Lagerfeld saying, per the New York Times. "She has brought sunshine to my life."

The feline sensation quickly became world-famous once she joined Lagerfeld's life, appearing on magazine covers, inspiring books, makeup lines, and a range of handbags designed by Lagerfeld himself—she even reportedly had two personal caretakers, a bodyguard, and a private chef. Following Lagerfeld's 2019 death, it was even rumored that Choupette—who is now owned by Lagerfeld's former housekeeper, Françoise Caçot—inherited a portion of his estate, though the exact numbers have never been confirmed.

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