The Metropolitan Museum of Art has decided to cancel its upcoming exhibition dedicated to British designer John Galliano due to widespread criticism from the Jewish community and beyond over Galliano’s history of making antisemitic and racist remarks. The exhibit, initially planned as the centerpiece of the May 2027 spring Costume Institute show and the annual Met Gala, will now be replaced by a different exhibition, the museum announced on Monday.
In a statement, Max Hollein, the museum’s director and CEO, revealed that after careful deliberation with John Galliano, both parties mutually agreed to forgo the exhibition. Galliano also expressed regret, acknowledging the hurt caused by his past words, particularly towards the Jewish and Asian communities.
Once a prominent figure in the fashion industry known for his extravagant designs, Galliano faced repercussions for his racist and antisemitic comments dating back to 2010 and 2011, which led to his dismissal from Christian Dior where he served as creative director. Following his departure, he underwent a period of rehabilitation before resurfacing in 2014 at Maison Margiela.
The Met Gala, a highly anticipated event in the fashion world, marks the beginning of the spring season and is overseen by influential figures like Anna Wintour, the global editorial director of Vogue, who has been a longtime supporter of Galliano.
Despite consulting with Jewish community leaders prior to the announcement of the exhibition, the museum faced heightened backlash, with New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin among the vocal critics. Menin welcomed the decision to cancel the exhibit, citing concerns over the current climate of antisemitism and the negative impact it could have had on the Jewish community.