The 2026 Grammys are finally here, and as performers and nominees hit the red carpet early, one look truly stood out for the Feb. 1 awards show.
French producer and DJ Gesaffelstein (real name Mike Lévy) arrived at the Grammys wearing one of the most unsettling outfits, and the internet is already in a frenzy over it.
Gesaffelstein made a rare appearance disguised in his signature menacing look at the Grammys, because he co-wrote Lady Gaga’s album Mayhem, which is up for multiple Grammys, including Album of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Album.
The iconic mask is most likely created by the Ironhead Studio, known for its intricate character and creature masks you’ve probably seen in major motion pictures and they’ve worked with the music programmer in the past.
The rare appearance was worth it because he took home one of the untelevised awards and his first Grammy for Best Remixed Recording for his remix of Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra.”
People unfamiliar with the artist, who’s referred to as the “Dark Prince of Techno,” were shocked by his appearance, which they found reminiscent of “blackface.”
If you didn’t know, “blackface” is an exaggerated, highly offensive caricature of Black people in entertainment that’s tied to the disturbing history of racism and oppression.
Given that the Grammys are on Feb. 1 (the first day of Black History Month), people couldn’t help but have pause about Gesaffelstein’s appearance.
But, as someone who’s seen Gesaffelstein perform over the years, this is nothing new. His metallic, dark appearance is his calling card in the same fashion as Deadmau5 and Marshmello.
Here are his previous appearances at the 2019 and 2024 Coachella Music and Arts Festivals:
And while some people are questioning whether or not it’s offensive, others are ultimately into it.
So, don’t fret, I can still check “marked safe during Black History Month” for now.
What do you think of his 2026 Grammys look? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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