The Metropolitan Museum of Art has decided to cancel its upcoming exhibit honoring British designer John Galliano due to widespread criticism from the Jewish community and beyond regarding Galliano’s past racist and antisemitic remarks. The exhibit, originally planned as the centerpiece of the May 2027 spring Costume Institute show and the annual Met Gala, will be replaced with a different exhibit, as announced by Max Hollein, the museum’s director and CEO.
In a joint statement with Galliano, it was revealed that after careful consideration and discussions, they mutually agreed to forgo the exhibition. Galliano expressed deep regret for the pain caused by his previous words, especially towards the Jewish and Asian communities. Previously celebrated for his creative designs, Galliano faced repercussions in 2010 and 2011 for racist and antisemitic comments, leading to his dismissal from Christian Dior and a subsequent conviction in France.
Despite his efforts at rehabilitation, Galliano’s controversial past continued to overshadow his career. The decision to cancel the exhibition marks a significant setback for Galliano, who was set to be only the third living designer to have a solo showcase at the Met’s Costume Institute. The Met Gala, which kicks off the spring season and is a prominent event in the fashion industry overseen by Anna Wintour, had originally planned to feature Galliano’s work.
The museum had engaged with Jewish community leaders before announcing the exhibit, hoping to address potential concerns. However, the backlash persisted, with New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin among the prominent critics of the show. Menin commended the museum’s choice to cancel the exhibit, stating that honoring Galliano would have been insensitive given the current climate of rising antisemitism.