Walton Goggins made a striking debut at the 2025 Met Gala, stepping onto the red carpet on May 5, 2025, in a bold ensemble that turned heads. The star of The White Lotus opted for a flowing black inside-out skirt designed by Thom Browne, paired with a crisp white shirt and a black tie. Completing his fashion-forward look was a long overcoat, also styled inside-out, showcasing his willingness to embrace the event's theme.
This year's Met Gala, known for its extravagant displays of fashion, carried the theme "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," which aims to highlight the evolution of Black men's fashion. The attendees were encouraged to interpret the dress code, dubbed "Tailored For You," creatively. Goggins was joined by fellow cast members Patrick Schwarzenegger and Aimee Lou Wood, all of whom contributed to the event's vibrant atmosphere.
The accompanying exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, which will run from May 10 through October 26, 2025, is inspired by Monica L. Miller's 2009 book, Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity. This exhibit is divided into twelve sections that explore various aspects of dandy style, including themes such as Ownership, Distinction, and Freedom. It aims to showcase how Black individuals have transformed their fashion from symbols of enslavement to expressions of autonomy and creativity.
Goggins' appearance at the gala marks the beginning of a busy week for the actor. He is set to host Saturday Night Live on May 10, 2025, alongside the musical guest Arcade Fire. His upcoming hosting gig follows a recent spoof of The White Lotus on the show, titled "The White POTUS." While Goggins praised the skit as "amazzzingggg" on social media, his co-star Aimee Lou Wood expressed her discontent, describing it as "mean and unfunny" in an Instagram post.
In a recent interview with GamesRadar+, Goggins reflected on his diverse range of characters, stating, "I see myself in all of my characters, no matter how in-depth or absurd." He specifically mentioned his role as Sammy in the upcoming comedy-drama The Uninvited, which is directed by his wife, Nadia Conners. The film follows a retired actor and his agent husband as they navigate the chaos of hosting an important dinner party that spirals out of control.
Goggins described Sammy as tightly wound and impatient, a character that feels different from his more dramatic roles. He noted, "I don’t think it’s the ambition — even though I’m an ambitious person — but I am in search of a deeper meaning and a deeper relationship to what it is that I do for a living." This quest for balance between his professional ambitions and personal life resonates with many, as he navigates the complexities of being a dedicated family man while pursuing his career.
The Uninvited is set to hit cinemas in the UK on May 9, 2025, and is anticipated to showcase Goggins' talent in a new light. The film's intimate nature, stemming from its personal connection to Goggins and Conners, adds an extra layer of depth to his performance.
Goggins has become a staple in prestige television, having starred in notable series such as The Shield, Sons of Anarchy, The Righteous Gemstones, and The White Lotus. His recent surge in popularity has not gone unnoticed, with fellow actors like Brendan Sklenar and Meghann Fahy acknowledging that everyone wants to work with him right now. Sklenar remarked, "I'd love to work with Goggins … he’s incredible. That guy’s been cooking for a long time."
As Goggins continues to rise in the industry, his unique features, including a receding hairline and oversized teeth, have become part of his charm. Critics and fans alike have praised his ability to subvert typical Hollywood beauty standards, with Claudia Hernandez, a longtime fan, stating, "People try to qualify his draw by pointing out his ‘atypical’ features for a leading man — we’re confused as to why we’re so drawn to him, but magic defies logic."
Despite his unconventional appearance, Goggins exudes a magnetic charisma that captivates audiences. His co-star Patrick Schwarzenegger shared an insight into Goggins' confidence, recalling a moment on set where Goggins expressed, "Yeah, I get nervous. But, I never f***ing question that I’m the right actor for this job." This self-assuredness is a key element of Goggins' appeal, as he embraces his individuality and authenticity.
However, Goggins' personal life has also attracted attention, particularly his relationship with Aimee Lou Wood. Rumors of a feud between the two surfaced after a playful social media exchange, with Vogue's Emma Specter questioning their dynamic. Goggins referred to Wood as his "soulmate" and mentioned their deep connection, further fueling speculation about their relationship.
Adding to the intrigue, Goggins and his The White Lotus co-star Jason Isaacs recently reunited on social media to dispel rumors of a feud, showcasing their camaraderie amidst the swirling drama. As Goggins navigates his professional and personal life, his authenticity and openness continue to resonate with fans.
With a busy schedule ahead, including hosting Saturday Night Live and promoting The Uninvited, Walton Goggins remains a captivating figure in Hollywood. His ability to embrace his uniqueness while delivering compelling performances ensures that audiences will be watching closely as he continues to evolve in his career.
