Did you happen to catch Hudson Williams’ 2026 Met Gala ensemble? Beyond the fashion itself, were you aware that the aesthetic choices became a major point of contention among the Heated Rivalry actor’s dedicated fanbase?

Mike Coppola / Getty Images

It is undeniable. Hudson’s red carpet presentation—most notably a structured blue Balenciaga piece complemented by a striking palette of red, blue, and black eyeshadow—split public opinion regarding Met Gala fashion standards. Now, his lead makeup artist, Aika Flores, is stepping forward to defend the creative vision behind the viral look.

Jamie McCarthy / Getty Images

In a recent Threads update, Flores characterized the high-profile event as “chaos & a career highlight.” She noted the environment involved “high pressure, high stakes,” while adding, “As an artist, I receive all feedback, positive & negative, with grace & gratitude; it’s all part of growth.”

Noam Galai / GC Images

“Taking a risk always comes at a cost, & I stand by that,” she continued in her post. “There’s always room to evolve, no matter where I am in my career.”

Michael Buckner / Penske Media via Getty Images

“But while everyone is entitled to an opinion, it’s important to remember there’s a human with feelings behind the work, building something with purpose, vision, & heart. It cost nothing to be kind.”

John Shearer / WireImage

“Please be kind to each other. *logging off,” Flores finished, effectively closing the door on the digital discourse.

Rob Kim / GC Images

At the end of the day, regardless of your personal stance on the experimental makeup, her plea for empathy is a sentiment that is hard to dispute!

The global football fever is officially starting! With the tournament rapidly approaching, the star-studded list of celebrities taking the stage at opening ceremonies worldwide has finally been announced.

Cristopher Rogel Blanquet / Getty Images

Here is the full breakdown of everything we know regarding the 2026 performers:

The inaugural World Cup match begins on Thursday, June 11, in Mexico City, where the host nation faces South Africa. To kick off the festivities, legendary rock group Maná will take the stage. Joining them for the massive celebration are Alejandro Fernández, pop star Belinda, cumbia icons Los Ángeles Azules, and the “Water” hitmaker Tyla.

CRISTINA QUICLER/AFP via Getty Images / Anne-Marie Forker/Redferns

For the United States leg, pop icon Katy Perry is confirmed to headline the high-profile opening ceremony at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Scheduled for June 12th before the US team plays Paraguay, the show will also feature high-energy sets from “Like That” rapper Future and the prominent Bangladeshi-American DJ Sanjoy.

Mark Wieland / Redferns / Savion Washington / Getty Images

North of the border, Canada is bringing out its musical heavyweights. Michael Bublé, Alanis Morissette, and “Scars to Your Beautiful” vocalist Alessia Cara are all set to perform in Toronto on June 12th. Their performances will help celebrate the national team’s highly anticipated match against Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Mathew Tsang / Getty Images / Gilbert Flores/Penske Media via Getty Images / Cindy Ord / Getty Images

While her specific performance date and venue remain a mystery, Lisa has officially been “signed up” by FIFA for the tournament. The global superstar, who recently garnered praise for her role in The White Lotus and her solo career away from Blackpink, is expected to be a major highlight of the global festivities.

CHANAKARN LAOSARAKHAM / AFP via Getty Images

Furthermore, the international talent pool continues to grow with reports that J Balvin, Anitta, and Danny Ocean are among the diverse group of artists slated to appear at various opening ceremonies hosted in cities across the globe.

Kevin Mazur / Getty Images for Coachella / Pascal Le Segretain / Getty Images for Balmain

Which of these musical performances are you most hyped to watch live? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!