Lisa (BLACKPINK) Responds to Controversy: What Really Happened Behind the Met Gala Scandal?

On May 5, Lisa (BLACKPINK) made her much-anticipated debut at the Met Gala, stepping onto the iconic red carpet in a bold Louis Vuitton bodysuit designed by creative director Pharrell Williams. But instead of applause, Lisa found herself at the center of a global firestorm—not just for her daring style, but for the portrait emblazoned on her outfit. Many online speculated that the face depicted was that of Rosa Parks (1913-2005), the legendary American civil rights leader.

Lisa was criticized for her bodysuit at the 2025 Met Gala. Photo: Getty Images.

The controversy quickly escalated, with critics accusing Lisa of disrespecting a historical icon and distorting the meaning behind the Met Gala’s theme: “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” a celebration of Black heritage and fashion influence. Social media was ablaze with heated debates, and Lisa’s look became one of the most talked-about moments of the night.

In response to the backlash, Louis Vuitton issued a statement to The Cut, clarifying that the portrait was created by renowned African-American artist Henry Taylor. Born in 1958, Taylor is celebrated for his acrylic paintings, multimedia sculptures, and installations. When pressed about the identity of the face on Lisa’s bodysuit, a Louis Vuitton representative replied, “Henry Taylor often paints both famous figures and anonymous individuals.” Later, in a written response to Page Six Style, the brand added that Taylor’s portraits are often inspired by people who have been a part of his personal life.

Lisa posted a photo with Pharrell Williams backstage at the Met Gala. Photo: IG.

However, these explanations were criticized as vague and evasive, failing to address the real question and fueling further speculation.

To set the record straight, Henry Taylor’s representative told Vulture: “The figure on Lisa’s Louis Vuitton outfit is not Rosa Parks. It’s actually one of Henry’s neighbors. The faces featured on this piece, as well as previous Louis Vuitton products using Henry’s art, are inspired by his personal world—family members, friends, and neighbors. These images come directly from Henry’s existing artworks, which he contributed to Pharrell’s debut collection for Louis Vuitton in 2023.”

Amid the swirling controversy, Lisa herself remained silent. Instead of issuing a statement, she took to social media on May 7 to share behind-the-scenes photos and Met Gala red carpet moments. She described her outfit as an “incredible work of art” and expressed gratitude to Henry Taylor, Pharrell Williams, and Vogue’s Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour, who hosted the 2025 Met Gala.

Lisa’s poised response—focusing on the artistry and honoring her collaborators—stood in stark contrast to the storm of criticism. By choosing not to directly address the backlash, she shifted the conversation back to creativity, collaboration, and the spirit of the event, leaving fans and critics alike to reconsider the true story behind the Met Gala’s most controversial look.