The Metropolitan Museum of Art has decided to cancel its upcoming exhibition honoring British designer John Galliano due to significant backlash within the Jewish community and beyond regarding Galliano’s history of making antisemitic and racist remarks. The New York museum announced on Monday that the exhibit, initially scheduled as the main event for the May 2027 spring Costume Institute show, along with the annual Met Gala, will be substituted with a different exhibition to be disclosed later.
In a joint statement, Max Hollein, the museum’s director and CEO, revealed that after thoughtful discussions with John Galliano, they mutually agreed not to proceed with the exhibition. Galliano also expressed regret, stating, “After careful consideration and conversations with The Met and other involved parties, I have reluctantly decided that it is best to forgo the exhibition at this time. I take full responsibility for the pain my past words have caused, particularly to the Jewish and Asian communities, and I am sincerely apologetic for it.”
Recognized for his bold designs, Galliano had a notable career as the creative director of Christian Dior until his dismissal following the surfacing of racist and antisemitic comments made in 2010 and 2011. Despite facing a backlash, Galliano worked on personal and public redemption efforts and made a successful return to the fashion world in 2014 when he joined Maison Margiela.
The cancellation of the exhibition marks a significant decision as Galliano was poised to be the third living designer to be featured in a solo show at the Met’s Costume Institute, which traditionally kicks off with the prestigious Met Gala, overseen by fashion icon Anna Wintour.
Prior to the announcement of the exhibit, the museum engaged in discussions with leaders from the Jewish community to address potential concerns. However, the decision faced continued criticism, with New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin among the prominent voices opposing the tribute to Galliano. Menin expressed satisfaction with the museum’s choice to cancel the exhibit, emphasizing that honoring Galliano during a time of rising antisemitism would have been insensitive and hurtful to the Jewish community.