Timothée Chalamet look-alike contest faces $500 fine as NYC crowd spirals out of control

Unpermitted Timothée Chalamet look-alike contest incurs $500 fine as crowd chaos ensues in NYC.

A Timothée Chalamet look-alike contest held at Washington Square Park on October 27 descended into disorder, resulting in a $500 fine imposed on event organizers by the New York Police Department. The unpermitted gathering, organized by YouTuber Anthony Jo, attracted hundreds of fans dressed as Chalamet's characters, leading to unexpected crowd control challenges. CBS News reported that the NYPD intervened after the rapidly growing crowd became unmanageable, issuing fines and detaining one participant for disorderly conduct.

Initially scheduled to start at 1 PM, the event quickly exceeded its planned scope as fans gathered en masse, causing a disturbance that spilled into the surrounding area. The NYPD's presence was prompted by safety concerns, as the sheer volume of participants disrupted regular activities within the park. Authorities cited the event for its lack of permits, emphasizing public safety protocols and crowd management concerns as reasons for the fine.

Following the police intervention, the event relocated to a nearby space, allowing the contest to continue under modified circumstances. Contestants had participated in various activities in tribute to Chalamet, including a language quiz in French, reflecting the actor’s bilingual background. Miles Mitchell, a 21-year-old fan dressed as Chalamet’s character from Wonka, ultimately won the competition and received a $50 prize.

Despite the disruption, Chalamet’s surprise appearance added to the event’s excitement. Organizer Anthony Jo later took to social media to share photos, humorously acknowledging Chalamet as his “#1 fan” for attending. The event’s chaotic outcome, however, raised questions about the need for stricter regulations at public gatherings, especially as celebrity-led events continue to draw large, enthusiastic crowds.