It’s not every day a true Hollywood icon steps back into the spotlight. But at the 2025 Oscars, Meg Ryan did just that—and in jaw-dropping fashion. It had been nearly three decades since the beloved star of When Harry Met Sally and Sleepless in Seattle graced the Academy Awards. And when she showed up? Let’s just say all eyes were on her.

Decked out in a deep-red velvet gown with a bold thigh-high slit, Meg brought the kind of old-school Hollywood glamour we’ve all been missing. Compared to her sleek, understated black dress from her last Oscars appearance, this look was louder, prouder, and undeniably more radiant.

From the moment she hit the red carpet, social media lit up like wildfire. Fans and fashion watchers alike couldn’t get enough of her luxurious wine-colored dress, which flowed effortlessly as she moved. The rich color not only made her glow—it added a certain depth and drama that matched the night’s vibe perfectly.

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Oscars 2025: Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal recreate cute moment from ‘When Harry Met Sally’

Her makeup was soft but striking: gently flushed cheeks, a berry-toned lip, and eyes that still carried that unmistakable sparkle. Her wavy blonde hair was styled just as we remember from her rom-com heyday. Familiar, nostalgic, but still fresh.

Meg didn’t just pose for pictures—she took to the stage, too. As she presented the Best Picture award to Anora, fans were treated to a sweet reunion with Billy Crystal. The chemistry between them? Still there. Their brief moment together brought back all the cozy, feel-good memories of When Harry Met Sally, reminding the world why their on-screen magic never fades.

The camera may have zoomed in on the Oscar envelope, but audiences couldn’t stop talking about the reunion that felt like a warm hug from the past.

Let’s be real: when a star like Meg Ryan returns after years away, the internet has opinions. Some were quick to celebrate her elegance and glow. “She looks amazing,” one fan wrote. “I think she looks more natural now—it’s refreshing.” Others gushed over her hair, her confidence, her ability to make a statement without trying too hard.

But not every comment was kind. Some critics online suggested she looked different, sparking debates about whether she had cosmetic work done in the past—and whether that’s anyone’s business. “I wouldn’t have known that was Meg,” one commenter said. “She looks so unlike the Meg I remember.”

Still, for every negative take, there were a dozen fans defending her. And let’s be honest—aging in Hollywood is never met without scrutiny.

Beyond the beauty chatter, some viewers noticed Meg appeared to walk with a bit of a struggle on stage. Cue the concern and speculation: Was something wrong? Was she injured?

Those who’ve followed Meg closely might recall that she once revealed a lingering hip issue. She’s previously admitted it causes a slight limp, especially when wearing heels. It’s a subtle reminder that, yes, even screen legends are human.

Fans online rallied to her defense, praising her poise and strength. “She handled it with grace,” one user posted. “She didn’t hide it. She just showed up and did her thing.”

Meg Ryan has always played by her own rules—and that’s never been clearer than in this latest appearance. Unlike many celebrities who chase every camera and event, Meg has kept her public appearances rare and intentional. That’s what made this moment so powerful: it wasn’t just a red carpet walk, it was a statement.

She reminded us that she doesn’t need to be constantly visible to matter. Her legacy is already etched into Hollywood history. When she shows up, it matters. And when she disappears again, the mystery only adds to her charm.

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Meg Ryan Returns to Oscars for First Time in 27 Years With Must-See Red Carpet Moment

At 62, Meg Ryan is still the embodiment of charm, poise, and quiet power. Her appearance at the Oscars wasn’t just about fashion or nostalgia—it was a nod to every fan who ever laughed, cried, or fell in love watching her on screen.

The beauty of Meg Ryan isn’t just in how she looks—though she looked incredible. It’s in how she carries herself. There’s a certain authenticity there, a refusal to play by the rules of a town obsessed with youth and perfection.

Love her new look or not, one thing is clear: Meg Ryan’s return to the Oscars reminded everyone why she was, and still is, one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars. Her grace, her presence, and her ability to command attention without saying a word are rare qualities.

Fans may debate how she’s changed, but there’s no debating her legacy. Meg Ryan stepped back into the spotlight—and just like that, reminded us all what real star power looks like.