The Metropolitan Museum of Art has decided to cancel its upcoming exhibition honoring British designer John Galliano following widespread criticism from the Jewish community and beyond due to the designer’s history of making antisemitic and racist remarks. The museum announced on Monday that the exhibit, originally scheduled to be the centerpiece of the Met Gala in May 2027, will be replaced by a different show to be revealed later.
In a joint statement, Max Hollein, the museum’s director and CEO, stated, “After careful deliberation with John Galliano, we have mutually agreed to not proceed with the exhibition.” Galliano also expressed his regret, acknowledging the pain caused by his past words and expressing deep remorse for the harm inflicted on the Jewish and Asian communities.
Once celebrated as a prominent figure in the fashion industry for his bold designs, Galliano faced backlash and legal repercussions for his racist and antisemitic comments in 2010 and 2011, resulting in his dismissal from Christian Dior. Despite efforts to rehabilitate his image, he later found success at Maison Margiela.
The decision to feature Galliano as the subject of a solo exhibit at the Met’s Costume Institute stirred controversy and prompted discussions with Jewish community leaders prior to its announcement. However, the negative response persisted, with New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin among those voicing opposition to the exhibition. Menin commended the museum’s choice to cancel the exhibit, stating that honoring Galliano during a time of rising antisemitism was unacceptable and caused significant distress within the Jewish community.