The Timothée Chalamet Look-Alike Contest Draws Crowds and Police Attention
The “Timothée Chalamet Lookalike Contest” promised a $50 prize and a moment in the spotlight for the best Chalamet doppelgängers in the city. Organized by YouTube personality Anthony Po, the event gained traction through social media and flyers posted around New York City, ultimately leading to thousands of RSVPs online. By 1 p.m., Washington Square Park was swarming with curly-haired hopefuls and enthusiastic spectators.
Dressed as Chalamet’s most iconic characters—like Willy Wonka from the upcoming Wonka movie—contestants strutted down a makeshift red carpet. But the crowd quickly grew beyond manageable limits, drawing the attention of the NYPD, who soon arrived to restore order. They issued a $500 fine to organizers for the “unpermitted costume contest” and instructed the crowd to disperse. The event’s unruly nature led to at least one arrest, with police detaining an attendee on undisclosed charges.
Timothée Chalamet’s Unexpected Appearance Delights Fans
In a twist that no one saw coming, Timothée Chalamet himself appeared at the event, blending into the crowd in a mask and baseball cap. Sneaking up on unsuspecting lookalikes posing for photos, he removed his disguise to reveal his identity, igniting a wave of cheers. Fans captured his brief appearance on social media, sharing moments of him greeting the crowd and taking selfies with his admirers.
One attendee, Lauren Klas, shared her excitement and even offered some tips on what makes a true Chalamet lookalike: “It’s all in the nose,” she said, emphasizing the actor’s distinctive bone structure. Chalamet’s surprise attendance underscored the event’s lighthearted, fan-driven spirit—even if it was overshadowed by the subsequent police intervention.
The Contest Continues: The show must goes on!
Determined not to let the police interruption end the contest, organizers quickly relocated to a nearby playground. Here, a scaled-down version of the contest resumed, with participants answering questions designed to gauge their “Chalamet essence.” They discussed their French language skills, how they’d make the world a better place, and even their hypothetical intentions toward Kylie Jenner, who has been rumored to be dating the Dune star.
In the end, Staten Island resident Miles Mitchell, who came dressed in a purple Willy Wonka outfit, took home the grand prize. Mitchell’s charismatic performance—complete with candy tossing from a briefcase—won over the crowd and earned him the coveted title of “Best Tim.”
Chalamet Look-Alikes Embrace Their Uncanny Resemblances
For the lookalike contestants, the event was more than just an attempt at winning $50—it was a chance to embrace a connection to the star, albeit one they hadn’t always welcomed. Spencer DeLorenzo, a 22-year-old contestant, shared his mixed feelings about his resemblance to Chalamet, explaining how it occasionally “got old” but ultimately felt like a fun, unifying experience. TikTok personality Cramer Ekholm, known for his Chalamet-like appearance, echoed similar sentiments, admitting he’s learned to “embrace it” despite once wishing people saw him as his own person.
For some, the comparisons can be bittersweet. One attendee, who goes by Max, admitted that while he appreciates the attention, it sometimes makes him feel self-conscious. Another contestant, Jake Robbins, laughed off comments on dating apps calling him a “discount Timothée Chalamet” but said he’d “take what he could get.”
As the incident at Washington Square Park shows, events like the “Timothée Chalamet Lookalike Contest” are becoming increasingly popular, but the attention they attract also brings logistical challenges. For organizers, managing crowd size and securing permits may be necessary as these fan-centered gatherings continue to grow. However, for fans and attendees, the unexpected spectacle of seeing their idol in the flesh—even if it’s just for a few fleeting moments—will likely be a memory they cherish for years to come.
