Lisa Ann Walter brands Jeff Bezos ‘Temu Lex Luthor’ at Met Gala protest
Photo: Reuters/Disney
Lisa Ann Walter, known for Abbott Elementary, made headlines at the 2026 Met Gala protest in New York after criticising Jeff Bezos during a “Labor Is Art” demonstration.
Speaking to protesters gathered near the venue, Walter criticised Bezos’ involvement as an honorary chair and major sponsor of the Met Gala, accusing him of turning the iconic fashion night into what she described as a display of wealth and influence.
Lisa Ann Walter gets it right at the #ballwithoutbillionaires today in NYC. @jeffbezos, you'll forever be "Temu Lex Luthor" to us now lol. #laborisart pic.twitter.com/J8Kb28Foeo
“How did an event meant to celebrate creativity and artistry end up revolving around this ‘Temu Lex Luthor’ who profits off pushing working people to their limits?” she said, prompting reactions from the crowd.
Walter continued her remarks by calling the gala “a vessel for one man’s ego,” adding that it reflected growing concerns about billionaire influence in cultural spaces. She also mocked the idea that wealth alone could define status or creativity, saying it was “sad” and out of touch.
The protest, organised under the “Labor Is Art” banner, brought together workers from Amazon and other industries, highlighting issues of wage inequality and labour conditions. Participants also showcased ethically sourced fashion pieces as part of the demonstration.
The event unfolded as the Met Gala 2026 took place nearby, where Bezos and his wife Lauren Sánchez served as honorary chairs, a decision that has already sparked controversy and boycott calls from activist groups and industry figures.
The protest adds to growing debate around corporate power, celebrity culture, and wealth inequality in high-profile entertainment events.