Cole Walliser absent from 2026 Grammys after controversial GlamBOT email apology

Cole Walliser, director of the popular GlamBOT photo booth, was notably absent from the 2026 Grammy Awards, despite the red carpet being filled with celebrities, according to E! and PEOPLE. Videos from the event showed Bad Bunny being directed by another individual during a photo-op, a role typically handled by Walliser, who is known for his behind-the-scenes interactions with stars.

Walliser recently addressed controversy surrounding a resurfaced 2019 email exchange with Yinka Animashaun, a woman seeking to book GlamBOT services. In the emails, Walliser questioned whether Animashaun could afford the service before providing pricing details, which she described as “hurtful” and “angrying.” On January 27, 2026, Walliser posted an apology on Instagram, taking responsibility for the tone of his messages and explaining the context of being overwhelmed while managing his business alone.

He emphasized that he never intended to cause harm or display bias, noting his own experiences growing up as half Chinese shaped his awareness of race and identity. Walliser also reflected on past red carpet incidents, including interactions with Jennifer Lopez, stressing that celebrity behavior is often business-driven and that he does not take perceived rudeness personally.