Coronavirus: Madonna appears to break social distancing rules at photographer’s birthday party

Singer is seen in social media footage hugging friend Steven Klein

Madonna appears to have broken social distancing rules to attend a photographer friend’s birthday party.

The singer can be seen in social media footage celebrating in person with Steven Klein, a renowned fashion photographer with whom she has worked in the past.

Klein, who turned 55 on 30 April, had said ahead of time that he would be having a Zoom birthday party featuring several performers.

While a virtual gathering would have been in accordance with social distancing rules in the time of coronavirus, social media footage suggests that some guests visited in person.

A clip shared on Instagram by Michele Ruiz, an artist manager and celebrity personal assistant, shows Madonna standing close to Klein and two other people as two cakes are brought out.

Madonna then shares a hug with Klein and wishes him a happy birthday.

“This was an online party. She was in her own home w/her family and crew that she has been quarantining with,” Ruiz wrote next to the footage.

“There were about five people that came to her home (or Steven’s?) to celebrate Steven’s bday, and all of these people have been quarantined for over a month as well. Please stop the Madness – she would never put herself or her children at risk!!!”

Klein also shared a photo of himself with Madonna on his Instagram account. Some brought up social distancing rules in the comments section, to which Klein responded: “We have been in quarantine!” and “We have all been in quarantine together! We take it very seriously.”

Madonna recently said in an Instagram video that she had tested positive for antibodies and thus wanted to go “breathe in the Covid-19 air”.

The Independent has contacted Madonna and Klein’s representatives for comment.