Lea Michele recently opened up about her unforgettable experience attending the Met Gala with her late boyfriend, Cory Monteith, reflecting on their time together more than a decade after his passing. In a heartfelt conversation during her YouTube series, *Gloves Off with Nicky Campbell*, Michele shared insights into the couple’s memorable night at the prestigious event.
“This was my second Met Gala,” Michele recalled, reminiscing about her fashion choices over the years. “The first one I wore Escada, red, first Met Ball, deer in headlights, no clue what I was doing.” She continued, “This was my second one. Cory and I went together, which was so exciting that we could both go. You know you’re not really allowed to bring anyone to the Met.” The actress described the evening as “so much fun,” highlighting the joy they shared during that special night.
Michele and Monteith, who starred together on the hit show *Glee*, were a beloved couple until Monteith’s tragic death in July 2013 due to a heroin and alcohol overdose. He was just 31 years old. Michele’s reflections on their time together reveal both the joy of their relationship and the deep sorrow she has faced in his absence.
In a previous interview on the *Therapuss* podcast, Michele opened up further about her grief following Monteith’s death. She described how her home in West Hollywood became a stop on a Hollywood bus tour that highlighted the lives of celebrities who had passed away. “I had a tour bus that would go past my house, and you would hear, ‘Lea Michele [is] Rachel Berry on Glee,’ and then I would hear ‘Don’t Rain on My Parade’ playing while I’m sitting in my living room,” she shared. This surreal experience added to the emotional weight of her loss, as she grappled with the public nature of her grief.
Michele expressed how unprepared she felt to deal with the loss of her partner, especially at such a young age. “It was so sad [and] it was so depressing,” she said. “I was 26. No one handed me a guidebook. It was a fast education on more stuff than I could ever even process.” Her candid remarks illustrate the struggles many face when navigating grief, particularly in the spotlight.
Every year since Monteith’s passing, Michele has honored his memory in various ways, whether through heartfelt notes or nostalgic photos. She has made it a point to ensure that his legacy continues to be remembered, showcasing the profound impact he had on her life.
As Michele reflects on both the joyful moments and the painful memories associated with her time with Monteith, fans are reminded of the complexities of love and loss. Her stories not only celebrate the life of her late partner but also resonate with anyone who has experienced similar heartache.
Through her reflections, Michele continues to inspire others to cherish their loved ones and navigate the difficult journey of grief with grace and authenticity. The memories she shares serve as a testament to the enduring bond they had, reminding fans that even in loss, love remains a powerful force.