NEW YORK — Supermodel and television personality Heidi Klum transformed into a living marble statue on the 2026 Met Gala red carpet Monday night, delivering one of the most memorable and theatrical interpretations of the evening’s “Fashion Is Art” dress code. The custom creation, executed by prosthetic and makeup artist Mike Marino, turned the 52-year-old into a stone-like figure inspired by classical sculptures, underscoring her reputation for taking costume artistry seriously.

Klum arrived on the Metropolitan Museum of Art steps encased in a form-fitting gray ensemble crafted from latex, spandex and other materials designed to mimic carved marble. The look featured intricate draping that evoked flowing fabric frozen in stone, complete with a matching headpiece adorned with floral elements. Her face, hands, teeth and body were fully painted and textured to match the illusion, including gray contact lenses that completed the statuesque effect.

The ensemble drew direct inspiration from masterpieces such as Giuseppe Sammartino’s “Veiled Christ” and Raffaele Monti’s “Veiled Vestal,” classical works renowned for their translucent veil illusions carved from marble. Marino, who previously collaborated with Klum on elaborate Halloween transformations, spent extensive time molding and crafting the piece to make it both rigid in appearance and wearable.

A Literal Take on Costume Art

This year’s Met Gala celebrated the Costume Institute’s spring 2026 exhibition “Costume Art,” which explores the intersection of fashion and fine art across 5,000 years through 400 objects. The dress code “Fashion Is Art” encouraged attendees to embody the theme creatively, and Klum took it literally by becoming a walking sculpture.

“She looks hard, but I’m soft,” Klum quipped in post-carpet interviews, joking about the foam and latex construction while noting the piece felt “a little warm” under the lights. “It only took 20 minutes” to get ready, she added with characteristic humor, though the intricate application process clearly required far more preparation.

The supermodel’s commitment aligns with her long history of boundary-pushing red carpet moments and elaborate Halloween costumes. From worm-themed outfits to full-body prosthetics, Klum consistently blurs the line between fashion and performance art, making her a fan favorite for dramatic interpretations.

Preparation and Build-Up

In the days leading to the gala, Klum shared glimpses of her inspiration process, including a museum visit in a plunging gray Ronny Kobo suit. “Let’s go get inspired,” she captioned a video strutting up the Met steps, building anticipation for her reveal.

The final look required full-body coverage, including painted teeth and illusion elements that made sheer-looking drapery appear as solid stone. The headpiece incorporated floral motifs, adding an organic contrast to the rigid marble effect. Klum navigated the carpet gracefully despite the restrictive materials, posing with the poise of a classical statue come to life.

Reactions Pour In

Social media erupted with a mix of awe, amusement and admiration. Many called the look “terrifying” in the best way, while others praised its technical brilliance and perfect alignment with the theme. Some compared it to her past bold statements, noting it fit her “Halloween in May” energy.

Fashion critics highlighted how Klum elevated the conversation around costume as art, moving beyond traditional gowns into immersive, conceptual territory. The prosthetic artistry sparked discussions about the craftsmanship behind red carpet moments, especially as AI-generated images of similar concepts circulated online, leading some to initially mistake her appearance for digital creation.

Fellow attendees and celebrities shared compliments on the carpet, with the look standing out amid a sea of artistic interpretations ranging from literal paintings to avant-garde constructions.

Klum’s Enduring Red Carpet Legacy

At 52, Klum continues to defy expectations in an industry that often sidelines older models. Her Met Gala appearances consistently generate buzz, from elegant tailored gowns in previous years to this year’s full artistic immersion. As host of “Project Runway” and a longtime fashion insider, she brings both expertise and playfulness to the event.

This year’s choice also reflects broader trends at the gala, where celebrities increasingly collaborate with makeup artists, prosthetics experts and sculptors rather than relying solely on traditional designers. Marino’s work on Klum exemplifies the growing fusion of fashion, theater and fine art.

Broader Context of the 2026 Gala

The 2026 Met Gala, chaired by notable figures including Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman and Venus Williams, drew global attention for its exploration of costume as art form. With Amazon billionaire Jeff Bezos among the financiers, the evening blended high fashion with cultural commentary on creativity and embodiment.

Klum’s statue look joined other memorable moments, contributing to a night described by some as “unhinged” in its creativity. From fencing masks to glass-box arrivals, attendees embraced theatricality.

What’s Next for Klum

Following the gala, Klum is expected to share behind-the-scenes details and possibly more photos as she decompresses from the demanding preparation. Her commitment to such ambitious looks often inspires fan recreations and sparks trends in costume design.

For now, her living sculpture stands as a highlight of the 2026 Met Gala — a bold reminder that fashion at its best transcends clothing to become performance, sculpture and unforgettable art. Klum once again proved why she remains one of the most compelling figures on the annual red carpet, blending humor, technical mastery and fearless creativity.

SYDNEY — The S&P/ASX 200 index tumbled more than 50 points in midday trading Tuesday, closing in on its recent lows as investors braced for an expected Reserve Bank of Australia interest rate hike and grappled with soaring global oil prices amid escalating Middle East tensions.

At around 1 p.m. AEST, the benchmark stood at 8,646.9, down 50.2 points or 0.58% from Monday’s close of 8,697.1. The index swung between a high near 8,697 and a low of 8,621.6, reflecting broad selling pressure across key sectors.

The decline comes ahead of the RBA’s policy decision later Tuesday, with markets pricing in a strong likelihood of a 25-basis-point increase to 4.35%. Economists widely expect the central bank to tighten policy for a third consecutive meeting to combat persistent inflation, fueled in part by higher energy costs.

“This move reflects caution ahead of the RBA call,” one Sydney-based trader noted. “Higher-for-longer rates are weighing on consumer-facing stocks and adding pressure to an already softening economy.”

Energy and Mining Drag Heavily

Rising oil prices provided a mixed signal but ultimately hurt sentiment. Brent crude jumped sharply overnight, climbing toward $114 a barrel after reports of Iranian military actions disrupting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. While energy giants like Woodside Energy saw some support earlier, broader commodity weakness and profit-taking hit miners.

BHP Group fell around 0.86%, while Rio Tinto shed over 1%. The materials sector lagged as investors weighed the inflationary impact of expensive oil against potential demand destruction from higher rates.

Consumer and Financial Stocks Under Pressure

Rate-sensitive sectors bore the brunt. Banks faced selling amid expectations of further tightening, even as recent earnings from majors like Westpac highlighted resilience in net interest margins. Consumer staples also slipped, with companies exposed to discretionary spending feeling the pinch from squeezed household budgets.

Notable decliners included Codan Limited, down over 8%, and Magellan Financial Group, which dropped more than 7%. A2 Milk faced additional pressure following a product recall announcement that hit sentiment in the staples space.

Tech Provides Rare Bright Spot

Technology stocks offered some resistance, bucking the broader trend as investors sought growth-oriented names less sensitive to immediate rate moves. The sector’s relative strength helped limit losses, echoing resilience seen in some U.S. peers despite Wall Street’s overnight pullback.

Broader Market Context

The ASX 200 has now given up much of its early 2026 gains, sitting virtually flat year-to-date. The index has faced repeated headwinds from geopolitical risks, stubborn inflation and shifting global central bank outlooks. Last week’s modest rebound proved short-lived as new concerns over energy markets and domestic policy took center stage.

U.S. markets closed mixed to lower overnight, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping over 1% as energy and rate-sensitive names weighed on the blue chips. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq also eased, reflecting similar caution. Bond yields climbed, with the U.S. 10-year Treasury note pushing higher on inflation worries.

The Australian dollar traded softer, reflecting expectations of tighter policy but also global risk aversion.

What Lies Ahead

Traders will watch the RBA’s statement closely for signals on the pace of further tightening. While most economists forecast the hike to 4.35%, a hawkish tone could accelerate selling in rate-sensitive assets. Conversely, any dovish surprises might spark a relief rally.

Corporate earnings season continues to provide mixed signals. Strong results from some banks contrast with warnings from retailers and consumer firms about cost pressures and softening demand. Building permits and job ads data have also pointed to cooling in parts of the economy.

Analysts remain divided on the broader outlook. Some see value emerging in beaten-down sectors if the RBA signals a pause after this move, while others warn of further downside if oil stays elevated and inflation proves sticky.

Investment Implications

For investors, the current environment underscores the importance of diversification. Defensive names in healthcare and certain tech areas have held up better, while exposure to commodities requires careful monitoring amid geopolitical volatility.

Longer term, Australia’s resource-heavy market could benefit if global growth stabilizes, but near-term volatility is likely to persist. The RBA’s path will remain a key driver for local equities through the rest of 2026.

The S&P/ASX 200, which tracks the 200 largest companies on the Australian Securities Exchange by float-adjusted market cap, serves as the primary benchmark for Australian equities. Its performance influences superannuation funds, ETFs and individual portfolios nationwide.

As trading continues into the afternoon, all eyes remain on the RBA announcement and any fresh developments from energy markets. With the index testing support levels near recent lows, a decisive break could open the door to deeper corrections, while a hold above key moving averages might encourage bargain hunting.

Market participants are advised to stay nimble as new data and policy signals emerge.

GameStop, the American video game chain that became the standard-bearer of the 2021 meme stock frenzy, has stunned Wall Street with an unsolicited $55.5bn (£40.9bn) cash-and-stock offer for the online marketplace eBay, an audacious reverse takeover that would see a company worth roughly a quarter of its target attempt to swallow it whole.

The bid, pitched at $125 a share, represents a $20 premium on eBay’s closing price in New York on Friday. Ryan Cohen, GameStop’s chief executive and the activist investor who engineered the retailer’s improbable turnaround, has signalled he is prepared to take the offer directly to eBay shareholders should the board rebuff him.

Cohen, who has built a reputation for cage-rattling boardroom interventions since making his name as the founder of online pet retailer Chewy, told the Wall Street Journal that eBay “should be worth, and will be worth, a lot more money,” adding that the marketplace “could be a legit competitor to Amazon” under fresh ownership. Under the terms tabled, he would become chief executive of the enlarged group on neither salary nor bonus, taking remuneration solely on the basis of share price performance.

The proposal has been met with thinly veiled scepticism from the City and Wall Street alike. Morgan Stanley described the two companies as having “fundamentally different” business models, while analysts at Bernstein pointed to the yawning gap between GameStop’s balance sheet and the scale of the prize, saying they would be “surprised if anything became of it”. Sucharita Kodali, retail analyst at the research firm Forrester, was equally blunt in conversation with Business Matters, warning that the deal “would saddle eBay with GameStop’s debt” and noting drily: “The truth is, we are not necessarily putting two strong companies together.”

Even so, the financial architecture is in place. GameStop, currently capitalised at around $11.9bn, has secured a commitment letter from TD Securities for some $20bn of debt finance, and Cohen has earmarked $2bn of annual cost cuts within twelve months of completion, savings he intends to wring largely from eBay’s sales and marketing function, which he argues has failed to capitalise on what GameStop terms a “marketplace with near-universal brand recognition”.

For eBay, the approach lands at a delicate juncture. Founded in 1995 as a haven for hobbyists and collectors, the platform was once a defining icon of the early internet but has watched its active user base contract from 175 million in 2018 to 136 million today, ground steadily lost to Amazon, Shopify-powered direct-to-consumer brands and a new wave of social commerce upstarts. The board confirmed it would consider the proposal, though insiders have privately questioned whether a leveraged bid from a smaller bricks-and-mortar operator constitutes a credible route forward.

GameStop’s own story remains one of corporate theatre. Catapulted into the public consciousness during the pandemic, when an army of retail investors organising on Reddit forced a short squeeze that briefly rewrote market mechanics, the company has since used its inflated valuation to shore up its balance sheet and pivot under Cohen, who took the chief executive role in 2023. Net profit climbed to $418.4m in 2025, up from $131.3m the previous year, although top-line sales continued to slide, the familiar pattern of a retailer cutting its way to profitability rather than growing into it.

Investors delivered their verdict swiftly. eBay shares closed up 5 per cent in New York on Monday, while GameStop tumbled by more than 9 per cent, the market’s blunt assessment that any value created by the deal would flow firmly in one direction.

For Cohen, however, the strategic logic extends beyond the spreadsheet. GameStop’s network of roughly 1,600 American stores would, he argues, hand eBay a ready-made physical footprint for live commerce, authentication services and other ventures that have struggled to gain traction online alone. Whether that proposition is sufficient to overcome the structural and financial objections piling up against the bid is, for the moment, very much an open question.

What is not in doubt is that Cohen has, once again, ensured that the corporate establishment cannot ignore him.

Amy Ingham

Amy is a newly qualified journalist specialising in business journalism at Business Matters with responsibility for news content for what is now the UK’s largest print and online source of current business news.

This article was written by

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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — U.S. and Iranian forces exchanged fire in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday as Washington launched an ambitious operation to escort stranded commercial vessels through the vital waterway, testing a shaky ceasefire and sending oil prices surging toward four-year highs.

President Donald Trump announced “Project Freedom” on Sunday, directing U.S. military assets to guide ships trapped in the Persian Gulf since Iran largely closed the strait earlier in the conflict. By Monday afternoon, U.S. Central Command reported that two American-flagged merchant vessels had successfully transited the narrow passage, but not without incident.

Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command, said American forces sank at least six Iranian small boats attempting to interfere with commercial shipping. Iran launched cruise missiles, drones and other attacks targeting vessels under U.S. protection, he added. All threats were neutralized, according to the military.

The clashes come amid broader strains on a ceasefire that took hold in early April after months of U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran and Iranian retaliation that included blocking the strait. Iran has denied full control claims while accusing the U.S. of aggression, and reports emerged of Iranian strikes on targets in the United Arab Emirates.

Strategic Chokepoint Under Siege

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, handles about 20% of global oil shipments and significant liquefied natural gas volumes under normal conditions. Roughly 125 to 140 vessels typically transit daily in peacetime. Traffic has plummeted to a fraction of that since fighting intensified, stranding an estimated 2,000 ships and up to 20,000 seafarers.

Iran has used the strait as leverage, imposing restrictions, charging high tolls on some vessels and selectively allowing passage for allies such as China and India. The U.S. responded with its own naval blockade on Iranian shipping starting in mid-April, turning back dozens of vessels.

On Monday, Iran’s navy claimed it prevented U.S. warships from entering the strait with warning shots, while semi-official media reported missile strikes on a U.S. vessel near the southern entrance. U.S. officials denied any warship was hit.

Oil Markets React Sharply

Brent crude futures jumped nearly 6% on Monday, trading above $114 per barrel at peaks — the highest since mid-2022 — before easing slightly. The surge reflects fears of prolonged disruption to Middle East energy flows at a time when global supplies are already tight.

Energy analysts warned that sustained closure or heightened risk in the strait could push prices even higher, rippling through gasoline costs worldwide and complicating economic recoveries. Major importers in Asia and Europe are scrambling for alternative supplies, though rerouting adds significant time and expense.

Broader Regional Fallout

The United Arab Emirates reported Iranian attacks on its territory, including a fire at the oil port of Fujairah. Oman also saw incidents along its coastline near the strait. These developments raise questions about the durability of the ceasefire negotiated in recent weeks.

Tehran has not fully confirmed or denied the latest strikes but maintains it retains capabilities to disrupt shipping. Iranian officials have warned of further retaliation if U.S. forces continue operations in what they consider their territorial waters.

The International Maritime Organization and maritime unions have expressed deep concern for seafarer safety. Insurers have grown reluctant to cover vessels in the area, driving up premiums or leading to outright denials of coverage. Thousands of crew members remain stuck aboard immobilized ships with dwindling supplies.

Trump Administration’s Strategy

Project Freedom marks a bold escalation in U.S. efforts to restore freedom of navigation. Trump described the mission as essential to preventing a global energy crisis and protecting commercial interests. U.S. naval assets, including destroyers and helicopters, are providing escort and mine-clearance support.

Military officials emphasized that operations aim to create safe corridors rather than engage in full-scale combat. However, the presence of Iranian Revolutionary Guard boats and potential mines adds significant risk. At least seven Iranian fast boats were reportedly destroyed or disabled in Monday’s skirmishes.

Critics worry the initiative could draw the U.S. deeper into direct confrontation, while supporters argue that allowing Iran to control the strait sets a dangerous precedent for international waterways.

Economic and Diplomatic Ripples

The crisis has already disrupted global supply chains. Qatar declared force majeure on some LNG exports, and petrochemical facilities in the region have faced operational halts. Asian buyers, heavily reliant on Gulf crude, are turning to higher-cost sources from the U.S., Latin America and West Africa.

Diplomatically, efforts continue behind the scenes. Mediators from Oman, Qatar and others are pushing for renewed talks, but trust remains low. A second round of discussions in Islamabad has been floated but not confirmed.

The United Nations has called for de-escalation, highlighting the humanitarian impact on mariners and the risk to global energy security. Shipping associations urge both sides to prioritize safe passage for civilian vessels.

Historical Context and Risks

The Strait of Hormuz has long been a flashpoint. Iran has threatened closure during past tensions, though never fully sustained it until the current conflict. Previous incidents involved mine-laying and tanker attacks in the 1980s “Tanker War.”

Today’s environment is more complex, with drones, precision missiles and cyber elements adding layers of danger. Experts caution that miscalculation could rapidly expand the conflict beyond the waterway.

U.S. Treasury officials have warned shipping companies against paying Iranian tolls, threatening sanctions. This further complicates commercial decisions for operators caught between competing demands.

Looking Ahead

As operations continue, markets will watch closely for signs of sustained safe passage or renewed escalation. Any successful transits under U.S. escort could ease pressure on oil prices, while further attacks might trigger panic buying and broader economic fallout.

For the thousands of seafarers still stranded, every day brings heightened anxiety. Humanitarian corridors and coordinated international efforts may be needed if military actions fail to restore normal traffic quickly.

The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains fluid, with global implications hanging in the balance. Diplomats, military commanders and energy executives are all racing against time to prevent a full-blown crisis from engulfing the region and beyond.

TUCSON, Ariz. — Three months after 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie vanished from her Catalina Foothills home in a suspected nighttime abduction, investigators continue to pursue leads with no arrests, no confirmed suspects and no definitive answers about her fate, even as new DNA analysis offers a glimmer of hope in the high-profile case.

Nancy Guthrie, mother of NBC “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, was reported missing on Feb. 1 after family members grew concerned when she failed to attend church services. Authorities believe she was taken from her bedroom in the early morning hours of Feb. 1, around 2:30 a.m., when her pacemaker lost connection to her phone, indicating it had moved out of range.

Evidence at the scene pointed strongly to foul play. Investigators found blood on the front porch, a back door propped open and doorbell camera footage showing a masked individual tampering with the device shortly before the disappearance. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has repeatedly stated he believes Nancy Guthrie was abducted against her will.

Ongoing Investigation Enters Fourth Month

As of early May 2026, the search has stretched into its fourth month with no major breakthroughs. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department, working closely with the FBI, describes the investigation as “active and ongoing,” with hundreds of tips received and analyzed.

“The investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie remains active and ongoing,” a sheriff’s department spokesperson said in a recent statement. No motive has been publicly identified, and authorities have not named any suspects.

Forensic efforts continue. In mid-April, reports emerged that the FBI is analyzing hair and potential DNA samples collected from the home in February. Sources familiar with the probe told outlets that advanced laboratory techniques are being used in hopes of generating a usable profile that could identify whoever entered the residence.

Sheriff’s officials later clarified that while analysis is ongoing, no dramatic new evidence has suddenly emerged. Private labs and federal partners continue sharing data, but results have not yet yielded a breakthrough.

Family’s Anguish and Million-Dollar Reward

Savannah Guthrie, who stepped away from her “Today” duties for several weeks following her mother’s disappearance, has returned to the show while remaining deeply involved in appeals for information. In late February, the family offered a $1 million reward for details leading to Nancy’s safe recovery.

In a emotional video statement, Savannah addressed the public directly, expressing both hope and the painful reality that her mother might no longer be alive. “We will pay” for credible information, she emphasized, while acknowledging the family’s understanding of the grim possibilities.

The family has endured additional torment from multiple ransom notes sent to media outlets, including TMZ. These communications claimed various scenarios, such as Nancy being taken to Mexico, but authorities have not confirmed their legitimacy. Former FBI agents described the tactic of routing demands through the press as highly unusual and potentially indicative of hoaxers or opportunists.

Savannah has spoken publicly about the toll, including conversations with her brother suggesting the abduction could be linked to her own public profile. She expressed regret over any way her celebrity might have drawn unwanted attention to her mother.

Chilling Details Emerge

The case has captivated national attention due to its puzzling circumstances. Nancy Guthrie lived in the same home for decades in an upscale neighborhood north of Tucson. She was described as active in her church community and independent despite her age.

Surveillance video released by authorities showed the masked figure at the door. Other footage from earlier that day captured Nancy in an Uber, marking what may have been her final known movements. Neighbors reported no unusual activity beforehand, adding to the mystery.

Experts, including former FBI profilers and “Mindhunter”-style analysts, have speculated on possible motives. Some suggest a simple ransom kidnapping gone wrong, with the perpetrator possibly someone known to Nancy or familiar with the area. Others have raised questions about whether the abduction was staged, though law enforcement has not endorsed that theory.

Forensic psychologist and clinical researchers have pointed to signs that the suspect likely had some prior interaction with the victim or scouted the home. Multiple people may have been involved, officials have not ruled out.

Broader Search Efforts and Community Response

The investigation has involved extensive ground searches, aerial support and coordination with federal agencies. False leads, including vehicle searches and detentions, have come and gone without resolution. Calls have grown for specialized volunteer groups, such as the Cajun Navy, to assist in desert areas, though official responses have been measured.

The case has highlighted challenges in missing persons investigations involving elderly victims, especially when celebrity connections amplify public interest but also complicate leads with hoaxes and speculation.

Nancy’s pacemaker data and other digital evidence have been crucial in narrowing the timeline. Blood found at the scene underwent testing, though full results have not been publicly detailed.

Expert Opinions and Theories

Retired FBI agents and criminologists have offered varied analyses. One former official described the motive as potentially “simple” — a ransom attempt where the victim may not have survived, followed by taunting communications to prolong family suffering. Others note the absence of clear proof of life as a troubling sign.

Speculation about family involvement has circulated online but was firmly rejected by authorities, who have cleared close relatives.

As the case approaches 100 days, some observers worry it could drift toward cold case status, though officials insist resources remain dedicated. A television special examining the mystery is scheduled to air in early May.

What Comes Next

Investigators continue sifting through tips and awaiting lab results. The FBI offers its own reward of up to $100,000. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Pima County Sheriff’s Department or the FBI.

For the Guthrie family, each day without answers brings renewed pain. Savannah has balanced professional responsibilities with private grief, occasionally sharing updates that underscore the human cost behind the headlines.

Nancy Ellen Long Guthrie, born in 1942 in Kentucky, remains a beloved figure to her family and community. Her disappearance has left an 84-year-old void that no amount of media coverage can fill.

The case serves as a stark reminder of vulnerabilities even in seemingly safe neighborhoods. As summer approaches in the Arizona desert, concerns grow about evidence preservation and the chances of locating Nancy alive.

Authorities and the family plead for the public’s help. In a case marked by more questions than answers, one breakthrough — whether from DNA, a credible tip or new footage — could finally bring resolution to a mystery that has gripped the nation.