The Metropolitan Museum of Art has decided to cancel its upcoming exhibition honoring British designer John Galliano due to widespread criticism within the Jewish community and beyond over the designer’s previous antisemitic and racist remarks. The New York museum announced on Monday that the exhibit, initially scheduled as the main feature of the May 2027 spring Costume Institute show launching the annual Met Gala, will be replaced by a different exhibition to be revealed later.
Max Hollein, the director and CEO of the museum, stated that after thoughtful discussions with John Galliano, they mutually agreed not to proceed with the exhibition. In a joint statement, Galliano expressed his regret and acknowledged his accountability for the pain caused by his past words, especially towards the Jewish and Asian communities.
John Galliano, renowned for his extravagant designs, faced a downfall in his career after making racist and antisemitic remarks in 2010 and 2011, leading to his dismissal as the creative director of Christian Dior and legal consequences in France. Despite his efforts at rehabilitation, Galliano’s return to the fashion industry in 2014 with Maison Margiela marked a significant comeback.
Originally set to be the third living designer to have a solo show at the Met’s Costume Institute, Galliano’s exhibition cancellation coincides with the Met Gala, a prominent event overseen by influential figures like Anna Wintour, Vogue’s global editorial director and a long-time supporter of Galliano.
The museum consulted with Jewish community leaders before announcing the exhibition, hoping to mitigate potential backlash, but faced escalating criticism. New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin, a vocal opponent of the show, commended the decision to cancel, emphasizing the insensitivity amid rising antisemitism concerns.
Image Source: Alastair Grant/The Associated Press