The Metropolitan Museum of Art has decided to cancel the upcoming exhibit dedicated to British designer John Galliano due to significant backlash from the Jewish community and others over his past anti-Semitic and racist remarks. The exhibit, originally slated to be the centerpiece of the May 2027 spring Costume Institute show at the Met Gala, will now be replaced by a different exhibition, with details to follow.
In a statement released on Monday, Max Hollein, the museum’s director and CEO, announced the mutual decision reached after discussions with John Galliano not to proceed with the exhibition. Galliano, in collaboration with The Met, expressed regret, acknowledging the impact of his past hurtful statements on the Jewish and Asian communities. He emphasized his accountability and deep remorse for the pain caused.
Once a prominent figure in the fashion industry known for his bold designs, Galliano faced repercussions for his offensive comments in 2010 and 2011, resulting in his dismissal as creative director of Christian Dior and legal repercussions in France for anti-Semitism. Despite his fall from grace, Galliano underwent efforts to rehabilitate his image and eventually found a new home at Maison Margiela in 2014.
Originally set to be the third living designer to have a solo exhibit at the Met’s Costume Institute, Galliano’s show would have kicked off the Met Gala, a prominent event in the fashion world overseen by Anna Wintour, the influential global editorial director of Vogue and a longtime supporter of Galliano.
Prior to the announcement of the exhibit, the museum engaged in discussions with leaders in the Jewish community in an attempt to address potential concerns. However, the decision faced heightened criticism, with New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin among the prominent voices opposing the showcase. Menin welcomed the cancellation, citing the inappropriateness of honoring Galliano amidst a climate of rising anti-Semitism and the distress it caused within the Jewish community.
