Sabrina Carpenter and Barry Keoghan Confirm Romance with Glamorous Met Gala Red Carpet Debut
After months of swirling speculation and subtle hints that captivated fans and media alike, pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter and critically acclaimed actor Barry Keoghan officially stepped out as a couple, making their much-anticipated red carpet debut at the 2024 Met Gala. Their joint appearance at fashion’s biggest night on Monday, May 6, finally put to rest any lingering doubts about their relationship, solidifying their status as one of Hollywood’s newest and most intriguing power pairs. The highly anticipated event, a cornerstone of the fashion calendar, served as the perfect, grand stage for the duo to go public with their romance, drawing immediate attention and delight from onlookers and paparazzi.
The 24-year-old “Espresso” singer and the 31-year-old “Saltburn” star arrived at the prestigious Costume Institute Benefit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art looking undeniably happy and comfortable in each other’s presence. They posed confidently for photographers, exchanging warm smiles and subtle gestures that spoke volumes. As they ascended the iconic stairs of the Met Gala, Sabrina Carpenter was observed cozying up to the Irish actor, a clear sign of their burgeoning affection. Their unified front on such a high-profile platform sent a clear message: their romance is real, and they are ready for the world to see it.
The dress code for the 2024 Met Gala was “The Garden of Time,” inspired by J.G. Ballard’s 1962 short story of the same name and complementing the new exhibition, “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion.” Sabrina and Barry certainly embraced the fairytale-like essence of the theme, creating a memorable visual narrative for their joint debut. Sabrina Carpenter looked breathtaking in a custom black, strapless Oscar de la Renta gown that exuded elegance and whimsical charm. The dress featured a sleek, form-fitting black bodice that cinched at the waist, dramatically flowing into an ethereal, light blue skirt with a sweeping train. Delicate floral embellishments adorned the skirt, subtly echoing the “Garden of Time” theme with grace and sophistication, making her appear like a modern-day princess emerging from an enchanted garden. The choice of Oscar de la Renta, known for its romantic and opulent designs, further cemented her status as a fashion icon on the rise.

Barry Keoghan, known for his unique and often bold fashion choices, complemented Sabrina’s exquisite look perfectly while maintaining his distinctive style. He donned a custom brown suit from Burberry, which evoked a sense of classic, old-world charm that aligned beautifully with the “Garden of Time” theme. The tailored suit featured a rich, earthy brown hue, paired with a sophisticated top hat that added a touch of vintage elegance and theatricality. His ensemble was a nod to a bygone era, suggesting a character from a fable, and creating a visually compelling contrast and harmony with Sabrina’s delicate gown. Together, their outfits painted a picture of a couple stepping out of a romantic narrative, capturing the imagination of everyone present.
The couple’s highly anticipated Met Gala appearance followed a period of intense public scrutiny and excitement, as romance rumors between Sabrina Carpenter and the acclaimed Saltburn actor had been circulating since late 2023. Their journey from rumored couple to red carpet official began quietly in December 2023, when they were first spotted out to dinner together, igniting a flurry of fan speculation. These initial sightings quickly escalated into a full-blown public fascination, with every subsequent appearance and social media interaction meticulously dissected by their dedicated fan bases and entertainment news outlets.
While the pair remained tight-lipped and didn’t publicly confirm their relationship in the early months, their actions often spoke louder than words. Barry, for instance, offered a significant hint when he commented with adoring emojis on Sabrina’s stunning SKIMS campaign photos, a gesture that was quickly noticed and interpreted by fans as a clear sign of romantic interest. These small but meaningful social media exchanges added fuel to the fire, building anticipation for an eventual confirmation. Their chemistry was palpable even through indirect interactions, making their official debut at the Met Gala an almost inevitable, yet still thrilling, moment for their followers.
One of the most significant public indicators of their deepening connection came just weeks before the Met Gala, during Sabrina’s highly successful performances at Coachella in April. While performing her hit song “Nonsense,” Sabrina Carpenter delighted the crowd by dropping a cheeky reference to a viral, controversial scene from Barry Keoghan’s acclaimed film Saltburn during her outro. She famously sang, “Made his knees so weak he had to spread mine/He’s drinking my bathwater like it’s red wine,” to rapturous cheers from the festival audience. This bold and playful lyric, a direct nod to Keoghan’s film, sent the internet into a frenzy, unequivocally confirming to many that their relationship was indeed serious and playful. She concluded her memorable Coachella outro with a promise to return, stating, “Coachella, see you back here when I headline,” showcasing her ambition and confidence in her soaring career.
Sabrina Carpenter’s career has been on an exponential upward trajectory, marked by her role as an opening act on Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour” and the massive success of her latest single, “Espresso,” which quickly became a global hit. Her Instagram caption for her Met Gala photos, “I’m working late,” was a playful nod to her chart-topping track, further intertwining her professional success with her personal milestones. Barry Keoghan, meanwhile, has cemented his status as one of the most compelling actors of his generation, earning critical acclaim for his roles in films like The Banshees of Inisherin and especially Saltburn, which garnered significant cultural buzz for its audacious themes and memorable scenes. Their individual successes make their pairing all the more captivating, bringing together two rising stars at the peak of their respective powers.
The Met Gala red carpet debut of Sabrina Carpenter and Barry Keoghan marks a significant moment for both artists and their fans. It not only confirms their romance but also elevates their status as a prominent power couple in the entertainment industry. Their appearance, perfectly aligned with the “Garden of Time” theme, showcased their individual styles while highlighting their undeniable chemistry and mutual affection. As their careers continue to flourish, this public affirmation of their relationship is sure to add another exciting dimension to their already compelling narratives, leaving fans eager to see what future public appearances and romantic milestones await this captivating duo. Their shared happiness on fashion’s biggest night suggested a promising and enchanting future for the couple, much like a modern-day fairytale truly beginning.