The Metropolitan Museum of Art has decided to cancel its upcoming exhibition dedicated to British designer John Galliano due to strong opposition from the Jewish community and beyond over Galliano’s history of making antisemitic and racist remarks. The museum announced on Monday that the exhibit, originally scheduled as the centerpiece of the May 2027 spring Costume Institute show and the Met Gala, will be replaced by a different exhibition to be revealed later.
Max Hollein, the museum’s director and CEO, stated, “After careful deliberations with John Galliano, we have mutually agreed to not move forward with the exhibition.” Galliano also expressed his regret, saying, “After extensive contemplation and discussions with The Met and all involved parties, I have sadly decided 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 apologize for it.”
Galliano, known for his extravagant designs, faced backlash after making racist and antisemitic comments in 2010 and 2011, leading to his dismissal from Christian Dior, where he served as creative director. Following his departure, Galliano underwent a period of rehabilitation and later made a successful comeback in 2014 at Maison Margiela in Paris.
The cancellation of the exhibition is significant as Galliano was set to be only the third living designer to have a solo show at the Met’s Costume Institute. The Met Gala, which marks the beginning of the spring season and is a prominent event in the fashion industry, is organized by Anna Wintour, the global editorial director of Vogue and a staunch supporter of Galliano.
Prior to the announcement of the exhibition, the museum engaged in discussions with leaders from the Jewish community to address concerns of potential backlash. However, the decision faced continued criticism, with New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin among the vocal opponents. Menin welcomed the cancellation, stating, “I am pleased that The Met has agreed not to honor John Galliano. I have consistently expressed my strong disagreement with this choice, particularly during a time of rising antisemitism, which was deeply upsetting to the Jewish community. This decision is appropriate as the harm caused was unacceptable.”
