Hollywood loves a good comeback, and at the 2025 Oscars, all eyes were on Meg Ryan. The beloved rom-com queen made her grand return to the Academy Awards after 27 years, turning heads with an elegant yet unexpectedly sultry fashion choice. But while fans were excited to see her back on the red carpet, something about her appearance had people talking.

Meg Ryan’s Stunning Red Carpet Return

On March 2, Meg Ryan made a rare red-carpet appearance at the Oscars, looking glamorous in a deep-red velvet gown. The strapless design showcased her timeless style, while the rich wine-colored fabric added an air of old Hollywood elegance. A daring thigh-high slit introduced an unexpected edge, proving that Ryan still knows how to make a statement.

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

Her look was a stark contrast to her last Oscars appearance, where she opted for a minimalist black ensemble. This time, she embraced a softer, more romantic aesthetic, with rosy cheeks and a glossy berry-toned lip that perfectly complemented the deep hues of her dress. She styled her signature blonde locks in effortless waves, bringing back memories of her iconic roles in When Harry Met Sally, You’ve Got Mail, and Sleepless in Seattle.

A Long-Awaited Oscars Comeback

Beyond her fashion choice, Meg Ryan’s return to the Oscars was special for another reason—she wasn’t just attending, she was presenting. The actress took the stage to announce the coveted Best Picture award, which went to Anora. Adding to the nostalgia, she reunited with her When Harry Met Sally co-star Billy Crystal, sending longtime fans into a frenzy.

Given that Ryan has kept a relatively low profile in recent years, seeing her back in the spotlight was a major moment. But while many celebrated her return, others couldn’t help but notice something different.

Fans React to Meg Ryan’s Transformation

As soon as she stepped onto the red carpet, social media buzzed with reactions to Meg Ryan’s appearance. Some fans were thrilled to see her looking refreshed and elegant.

“She looks amazing! It seems like she reduced the fillers, and now she looks fantastic!” one admirer commented. Another added, “Very pretty! Her hair is perfect—just like the Meg we all loved.”

Video:

Meg Ryan’s Epic Comeback! 27 Years Later at the Oscars And She Stole the Show!

However, not everyone was convinced. Some viewers felt that she looked almost unrecognizable, sparking a wave of speculation.

“That’s not Meg Ryan!” one Twitter user exclaimed. Another questioned, “I wouldn’t have known who that was if they hadn’t said her name.”

While Hollywood stars often face scrutiny over cosmetic procedures, Ryan has been at the center of plastic surgery rumors for years. Many fans speculated that she had previously undergone procedures that altered her look, though some believe she may have toned them down in recent years.

Her Walk Sparked Concern Among Viewers

It wasn’t just her appearance that had people talking—her movement on stage also raised eyebrows. As Ryan walked across the Oscars stage, some noticed that she seemed to struggle slightly.

“Why is she walking like she has a prosthetic leg?” one viewer questioned. Others expressed concern for her health, wondering if something was wrong.

Longtime fans may recall that Ryan has previously opened up about a hip issue that affects her mobility. In an old interview, she revealed that she walks with a slight limp due to a lingering injury. This detail resurfaced as people tried to make sense of her movements at the Oscars.

The Pressure of Hollywood’s Beauty Standards

The mixed reactions to Meg Ryan’s appearance highlight a larger issue—Hollywood’s relentless beauty standards. Female celebrities, in particular, face intense scrutiny over aging, often feeling pressured to maintain a youthful look in an industry that prioritizes perfection.

Ryan has largely stepped away from the spotlight in recent years, which may have amplified the shock factor when she reappeared at the Oscars. For many, it was a reminder of how much time has passed since her rom-com reign in the ’90s.

Meg Ryan’s Legacy Remains Untouchable

Meg Ryan wows in red at the 2025 Oscars. 💃 pic.twitter.com/ERZEKljUSV

— New York Post (@nypost) March 3, 2025

Regardless of how people feel about her appearance, one thing remains undeniable—Meg Ryan is an icon. Her contributions to film, especially in the romantic comedy genre, have cemented her place in Hollywood history. Seeing her back at the Oscars after nearly three decades was a reminder of the magic she brought to the big screen.

Whether she returns for more projects or continues to live life on her own terms, Ryan’s impact on cinema and pop culture remains as strong as ever. And if nothing else, her 2025 Oscars comeback proved that she still knows how to captivate an audience—just like she always has.