Galliano Exhibition Canceled After Controversy
Designer John Galliano and the Metropolitan Museum of Art have declared that the exhibition planned for the 2027 Met Gala will not proceed. This decision came after significant backlash due to Galliano’s past comments.
The British designer announced on social media that he decided against the exhibition following extensive reflection and discussions. The Met confirmed the cancellation of the spring 2027 exhibition focused on his four-decade career.
Controversy erupted earlier over Galliano’s history of antisemitic and racist remarks. These comments, made in 2010 and 2011, led to his dismissal from Christian Dior and a conviction for hate crimes in France.
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.
Anna Wintour, chair of the Met Gala and longtime Vogue editor-in-chief, supported Galliano’s decision. She called it a courageous move.
Andrew Bolton, curator at The Met’s Costume Institute, emphasized the museum’s duty to examine challenging histories. He acknowledged the pain and concern the proposed exhibition caused.
Donors expressed discontent, some threatening to withdraw support if the exhibition proceeded, as reported by The New York Times. New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin opposed the exhibition. She labeled it disrespectful to the Jewish community.
At this rising time of antisemitism, it had served as a gut punch to the Jewish community.
Galliano, a former creative director at Dior, revitalized the brand during his 15-year tenure. He became Maison Margiela’s creative director in 2014. CBS News fashion contributor Lauren Sherman highlighted Galliano’s transformative impact on the fashion industry.
Wintour had worked closely with Galliano over the last decade, aiding his career resurgence at Maison Margiela. She featured in a 2024 documentary chronicling his career journey.
Galliano would have been only the third living designer to have a solo exhibition at the Met’s Costume Institute. The Met will announce a new spring exhibition and the 2027 Met Gala details later.