The Metropolitan Museum of Art has decided to cancel its upcoming exhibition dedicated to British designer John Galliano due to widespread criticism within the Jewish community and beyond stemming from Galliano’s history of making antisemitic and racist remarks. The museum announced on Monday that the exhibit, initially scheduled for the May 2027 spring Costume Institute showcase that launches the annual Met Gala, will be substituted with another exhibition to be disclosed later.
Max Hollein, the director and CEO of the museum, revealed in a statement that, after thoughtful deliberations with John Galliano, they mutually agreed to halt the exhibition. Galliano also acknowledged the decision, stating, “After extensive contemplation and consultations with The Met and relevant parties, I have sadly concluded that it is best to forego the exhibition at this time. I take full responsibility for the distress caused by my previous statements, especially the pain inflicted on the Jewish and Asian communities, and I express deep regret for it.”
Renowned for his extravagant designs, Galliano was a prominent figure in the fashion industry, serving as the creative director of Christian Dior for several years. However, his career at Dior came to an end when offensive comments he made in 2010 and 2011 resurfaced, leading to his conviction in an antisemitism trial in France. Subsequently, Galliano engaged in efforts, both public and private, to rehabilitate his image. He made a comeback in 2014 by joining the Paris fashion house Maison Margiela, where he remained for a decade.
Initially set to be only the third living designer to have a solo exhibition at the Met’s Costume Institute, Galliano’s showcase was poised to kick off the spring season alongside the annual Met Gala, a premier event in the fashion world overseen by Anna Wintour, Vogue’s global editorial director and a highly influential figure in the industry. Wintour, a longtime supporter of Galliano, has been instrumental in organizing the Met Gala.
Prior to the announcement of the exhibition, the museum engaged in consultations with leaders in the Jewish community to preempt potential backlash. However, the decision faced escalating criticism. Among the vocal critics of the exhibition was New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin, who lauded the museum’s choice to cancel the show. Menin emphasized that honoring Galliano amid rising antisemitism was deeply troubling for the Jewish community, and she welcomed the decision to rescind the exhibition.
