The Metropolitan Museum of Art has decided to cancel its upcoming exhibition dedicated to British designer John Galliano due to significant 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 scheduled as the main feature of the May 2027 spring Costume Institute show and Met Gala, will be substituted with a different exhibition to be revealed later.
In a statement, Max Hollein, the director and CEO of the museum, disclosed that after thorough deliberations with John Galliano, it was mutually agreed not to proceed with the exhibition. Galliano also expressed regret, stating that after careful consideration and discussions with The Met, he believes it is best for the exhibition not to happen at this time. He acknowledged his accountability for the pain caused by his past remarks and extended apologies, especially to the Jewish and Asian communities.
John Galliano, widely recognized for his extravagant designs, faced a downfall in his career following a series of racist and antisemitic comments in 2010 and 2011 during his tenure as the creative director of Christian Dior. His termination from Dior led him to embark on a journey of public and private initiatives for redemption. Galliano later made a comeback in 2014 when he joined Maison Margiela, where he remained for a decade.
Initially slated to be the subject of a solo exhibition at the Met’s Costume Institute, Galliano was set to join an elite group of living designers honored in such a manner.
The cancellation of the exhibition comes at a crucial time as the Met Gala, a high-profile event in the fashion industry, marks the beginning of the spring season. The event, overseen by influential figure Anna Wintour, global editorial director of Vogue, holds significant importance in the fashion world. Wintour, a longtime supporter of Galliano, has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry.
Before announcing the exhibition, the museum engaged in consultations with Jewish community leaders to preempt potential backlash. Despite these efforts, criticism mounted, with New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin being a prominent voice against the showcase. Menin lauded the decision to cancel the exhibition, citing the current climate of rising antisemitism and the unacceptable harm it would cause to the Jewish community.
