Meg Ryan’s “Unrecognizable” Appearance Sparks Controversy as She Returns to the Oscars After 27 Years

Hollywood legend Meg Ryan made a stunning return to the spotlight at the 2025 Oscars after almost 30 years, captivating everyone with her sophisticated yet alluring fashion choice. Known for her preference for privacy, the actress's rare red-carpet appearances always make an impact — and this time was no different. However, one specific detail about her appearance raised concerns.

On March 2, Meg Ryan made a grand return to the Oscars after decades, stunning in a strapless, deep-red velvet gown that effortlessly blended sophistication with allure. The luxurious wine-colored fabric cascaded gracefully, accentuating her timeless elegance, while a thigh-high slit added a daring touch of boldness.

In contrast to her previous Oscar appearance, where she wore a minimalist all-black look, Meg Ryan embraced a soft, rosy aesthetic this time, with delicately flushed cheeks and a glossy, berry-toned lip that beautifully complemented the rich hues of her gown. Staying true to her signature style, she styled her hair in relaxed waves, evoking the charm of the iconic rom-com characters she portrayed in beloved classics like When Harry Met Sally, You’ve Got Mail, and Sleepless in Seattle.

What truly captivated people, however, was her face and her walk. Social media quickly buzzed with reactions, with many complimenting her revitalized look. "Her face is back to normal!" one fan remarked. Another chimed in, "She looks great. I think she reduced or took off the fillers, and she now looks fantastic!"

At the same time, not everyone shared the same sentiment. Some critics felt she appeared different from her usual self, with one commenting, "She is a beautiful person, but what do these women do to their cheeks?" Others struggled to recognize her. "That’s not Meg Ryan!" one person exclaimed. Another questioned, "Why is she walking like she has a prosthetic leg? Also, I loved her in the 90s, but I sure wouldn’t have ever known who that person is." A third agreed, "Something was off about her walk?"

Last year, Meg Ryan’s appearance also sparked a stir as she looked unrecognizable yet stunning at an event where she was honored at the Sarajevo Film Festival in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The actress, who is rarely seen at events, received a prestigious award for her outstanding contributions to the film industry.

Fans were excited to see Meg Ryan back in the limelight. One fan expressed, "You're still my absolute fave of all time." Another added, "Oh my god, still such a cutie!"

Shortly before that, 75-year-old Richard Gere left fans in awe with his remarkably youthful new look.