Bad Bunny dominated conversation at the Met Gala in New York on May 4, arriving in a dramatic elderly disguise that left photographers momentarily unsure of his identity and later fueling online debate after a brief, widely dissected interaction with Kris Jenner.
The artist, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, appeared on the red carpet wearing a white wig, full beard, and extensive prosthetics that altered his facial structure, paired with a walking stick that reinforced the illusion of advanced age. The transformation marked one of the most unconventional looks of the evening at what organizers describe as "Fashion's Biggest Night."
Initial reactions on the carpet reflected confusion as photographers struggled to recognize the performer, who has become a regular presence at the event. Once identified, he leaned into the persona, exaggerating posture and expressions to match the character.
Online response was swift and polarized. Some viewers criticized the look outright, with one user writing, "Sorry, but no I don't like it," while another asked, "Why is he an old man?" A third viral comment suggested, "Superbowl aged him 60 years," referencing his recent high-profile appearances.
Others interpreted the transformation as intentional commentary. One supporter wrote, "For me, it was a critique showing that aging can also be beautiful," while another compared his approach to other costume-focused attendees, saying, "He and Heidi Klum are so good at costumes and entertaining! Love them both!"
The appearance gained additional traction after footage surfaced of Bad Bunny greeting Kris Jenner, mother of his former partner Kendall Jenner. The two were seen exchanging a brief acknowledgment on the red carpet, an interaction that quickly became a focal point for speculation.
Body language expert Inbaal Honigman, speaking to Casino.org, characterized the exchange as reserved. She described Jenner's reaction as a "cold, friendly response," suggesting a contrast between the artist's apparent expectation and the reality of the interaction.
Honigman elaborated that Bad Bunny appeared to anticipate "a full warm family cuddle, for their heads to meet in the middle," while Jenner maintained distance. "Kris is not prepared to share this level of warmth, she's not returning his hug," she said, adding, "Kris looks towards Bad Bunny, following him with her eyes, but doesn't squeeze her body towards him for a hug, not at all."
The interpretation has fueled broader discussion about the status of relationships within the Kardashian-Jenner circle following the end of Bad Bunny's relationship with Kendall Jenner, which lasted less than a year. Neither party has publicly commented on the nature of their current dynamic.
