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 the designer’s history of making antisemitic and racist remarks. The museum announced on Monday that the exhibit, originally slated to be the spring Costume Institute show for May 2027, will be replaced by a different exhibition to be revealed later.
In a statement, Max Hollein, the museum’s director and CEO, stated, “Following thoughtful discussions with John Galliano, we have mutually agreed to not proceed with the exhibition.” Galliano also expressed his decision, acknowledging, “After careful consideration and conversations with The Met and all involved parties, I have sadly concluded that it is best to cancel the exhibition at this time. I take full responsibility for the pain caused by my past words, especially the harm inflicted on the Jewish and Asian communities, and I deeply regret it.”
John Galliano, known for his extravagant designs, previously served as the creative director of Christian Dior but faced repercussions after making offensive comments in 2010 and 2011, resulting in his dismissal and a conviction in an antisemitism trial in France. Following his departure from Dior, Galliano dedicated several years to rehabilitation efforts before making a comeback in 2014 at Maison Margiela.
Originally set to be the third living designer to be featured in a solo exhibition at the Met’s Costume Institute, Galliano’s show would have kicked off the spring season with the annual Met Gala, a significant event in the fashion industry overseen by Anna Wintour, Vogue’s global editorial director and a prominent figure in fashion. Wintour, a longtime supporter of Galliano, played a pivotal role in the event planning.
Despite consulting with Jewish community leaders beforehand to address concerns, the museum faced escalating backlash. New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin, a vocal critic of the exhibit, commended the decision to cancel, emphasizing the inappropriateness of honoring Galliano amid rising antisemitism concerns. Menin stated, “I am pleased that The Met has agreed to cancel the tribute to John Galliano. This decision is necessary, given the current climate of antisemitism, and it was causing undue harm and distress within the Jewish community.”