CBC News identified a wave of AI-generated photos and videos claiming to show celebrities at the 2024 Met Gala as fabrications [1, 2].
The prevalence of these images highlights the growing difficulty in distinguishing real event photography from synthetic media, especially during high-profile cultural moments. As AI tools become more sophisticated, the ability to create realistic but false imagery can lead to widespread misinformation regarding public appearances and celebrity attendance.
Fact-checkers focused on images of Nicki Minaj and Lady Gaga that circulated online [1, 2]. The images appeared to show the artists on the red carpet at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City [1]. However, the investigation concluded that these specific visuals were produced by AI-image generators rather than photographers at the scene [1].
The 2024 Met Gala took place on May 6, 2024 [1]. While the event is known for its elaborate fashion and celebrity guest list, the synthetic images created a false narrative about who actually attended the gala [1].
In the case of Nicki Minaj, the AI-generated photos were so realistic that they prompted significant online discussion about her presence at the event [2]. CBC News said the images were not real [1]. Separate reports also indicated that Minaj was not invited to the 2026 Met Gala, further suggesting a pattern of exclusion or absence from the event [1].
This trend of synthetic red-carpet imagery allows users to place celebrities in settings they never visited. By leveraging the high visibility of the Met Gala, creators of these images were able to trigger rapid viral sharing across social media platforms [1, 2].
“Images of Nicki Minaj at the Met Gala are AI-generated and not real”
The emergence of high-fidelity AI fabrications during major events like the Met Gala signals a shift in how digital misinformation operates. Rather than relying on text-based rumors, bad actors or fans can now create 'visual proof' of events that never occurred. This places a higher burden of verification on news organizations and consumers to authenticate imagery through official guest lists and verified press galleries.
