Tyla Addresses Viral Rihanna Met Gala Snub Rumours After ‘Awkward’ Interaction

South African singer Tyla has responded to speculation surrounding her interaction with Rihanna at the 2026 Met Gala after a short clip from the event circulated widely on social media.
The footage, shared across TikTok and X, showed Rihanna walking past Tyla outside the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Social media users quickly began speculating that Rihanna had ignored the “Water” singer during the event.

Tyla – Instagram

Tyla has now addressed the rumours, explaining that the moment was not as serious as many online users assumed.
Speaking in a TikTok video posted after the event, the singer said the interaction felt “awkward” from her side because she considers Rihanna one of her idols.

Tyla explained that she hesitated to approach the star because Rihanna appeared busy during the evening.
“Everyone knows I love RiRi,” Tyla said while responding to the online reactions. She also recalled an earlier meeting with Rihanna, explaining that their previous interaction was also brief because the singer had to leave during their conversation.
Rather than suggesting tension between them, Tyla described both encounters as unfortunate timing.

Rihanna – Instagram

She explained that at this year’s Met Gala, she again chose not to interrupt Rihanna because the singer seemed occupied. Tyla added that if they eventually have a proper conversation, she would prefer it to happen in a calmer environment away from cameras and social media commentary.

The clip became a major talking point following this year’s Met Gala, with thousands of social media users commenting on the interaction. While some accused Rihanna of being dismissive, others argued the moment had been misinterpreted online.

The discussion also emerged alongside separate speculation involving Rihanna and A$AP Rocky after another post-event video prompted rumours about the couple. Several entertainment outlets later reported that the pair were exhausted after a long evening of appearances and interviews.

Tyla – Instagram

Despite the online debate, Tyla’s response made it clear that there was no issue between the two singers. The star, who attended this year’s Met Gala in a custom Valentino look designed by Alessandro Michele, has previously spoken about Rihanna’s influence on her career.
Tyla’s explanation has since helped calm speculation surrounding the viral moment, with many fans praising the singer for directly addressing the rumours.