The planned exhibition featuring designer John Galliano in conjunction with the 2027 Met Gala will not proceed. This decision comes after weeks of intense backlash and widespread controversy surrounding Galliano’s past comments.
Galliano announced on social media that the exhibition would not go forward. He mentioned that this decision was made after much reflection and discussion with involved parties. He expressed his sadness over the cancellation.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art confirmed the cancellation of the planned Spring 2027 exhibition. They described the focused exploration of Galliano’s four-decade career as halted.
Galliano, known for his theatrical designs, faced criticism this month due to antisemitic and racist remarks he made in 2010 and 2011. These remarks led to his dismissal from Christian Dior in 2011 and a hate crime conviction in France.
In his statement, Galliano acknowledged the harm caused by his words. He expressed particular regret towards the Jewish and Asian communities, offering a sincere apology.
Met Gala chair Anna Wintour praised Galliano’s decision as courageous. Wintour, who has worked closely with Galliano over the past decade, stated that the choice reflects his character. She affirmed her support for both Galliano and the Museum.
“I remain fully accountable for the pain caused by my words in the past, particularly the hurt I caused to the Jewish and Asian communities, and I remain deeply sorry,” Galliano’s statement read.
Andrew Bolton, curator in charge of The Met’s Costume Institute, said museums hold a responsibility to examine complicated histories with honesty. He acknowledged the pain and concern caused by the planned exhibition.
Opposition to the exhibit increased recently, as donors threatened to withdraw their support if it proceeded. The New York Times reported on this growing opposition.
New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin, a significant Jewish official, was particularly vocal against the exhibit. She stated her strong disagreement with the decision to honor Galliano, emphasizing that it was painful for the Jewish community amid rising antisemitism.
“From the beginning, I have told them that I strongly disagreed with this decision, and at this rising time of antisemitism, it had served as a gut punch to the Jewish community. This is the correct decision, as the harm and pain this was causing was simply unacceptable,” Menin stated.
Galliano, who served as creative director at Dior for 15 years, transformed the fashion house before his fall from grace. He has since worked as the creative director at Maison Margiela for ten years.
Lauren Sherman, a CBS News fashion contributor, noted that Galliano was instrumental in evolving the fashion industry, stating that the 1990s represented a period of significant innovation.
Sherman highlighted Wintour’s supportive role in Galliano’s career revival, helping him secure his role at Maison Margiela. Wintour featured in “High & Low – John Galliano,” a 2024 documentary charting his rise and rehabilitation.
Galliano was set to be only the third living designer to have a solo show at the Met’s Costume Institute.
The Met announced intentions to provide new details for the upcoming spring Costume Institute exhibition and the 2027 Met Gala soon.