Overview

• Director Peter Gelb addressed the audience before the curtain to affirm the Met's support for creative expression, drawing minutes of applause from a full house.
• U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer warned from the stage that art and free speech are under attack and referenced the Kimmel situation.
• ABC removed Jimmy Kimmel's show for an indefinite period last week after his remarks about the deadly attack on conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
• The performance featured the premiere of The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay, adapted from Michael Chabon's 2000 award‑winning novel.
• The high‑profile season opener reinforced the Met's public stance in the national debate over artistic freedom.