The Metropolitan Museum of Art has decided to cancel its upcoming exhibition dedicated to British designer John Galliano due to significant criticism within the Jewish community and beyond over Galliano’s history of making antisemitic and racist remarks.
In an announcement on Monday, the New York museum revealed that the exhibit, originally slated as the centerpiece of the May 2027 spring Costume Institute show and the annual Met Gala, will be replaced by a different exhibition to be disclosed later.
Max Hollein, the museum’s director and CEO, stated, “Following thorough discussions with John Galliano, we have mutually agreed to not proceed with the exhibition.” Galliano also expressed his regret, saying, “After careful consideration and conversations with The Met and all involved parties, I have sadly concluded that it is best to forego the exhibition at this time. I take full responsibility for the harm caused by my past words, particularly the pain inflicted on the Jewish and Asian communities, and I deeply apologize.”
Once a prominent figure in the fashion industry known for his bold designs, Galliano faced repercussions after making a series of racist and antisemitic comments in 2010 and 2011, resulting in his dismissal as creative director of Christian Dior and a conviction in an antisemitism trial in France.
Following his departure from Dior, Galliano dedicated several years to rehabilitation efforts, eventually making a comeback in 2014 at Maison Margiela, a Paris fashion house, where he worked for ten years.
Originally set to be the third living designer to have a solo exhibition at the Met’s Costume Institute, Galliano’s show would have kicked off the spring season alongside the renowned Met Gala, a prominent event in the fashion industry overseen by Anna Wintour, the global editorial director of Vogue.
Despite engaging with Jewish community leaders prior to announcing the exhibit, the museum faced escalating criticism, leading to the cancellation. New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin, a vocal opponent of the exhibit, commended the decision, stating, “I am pleased that The Met has agreed to cancel the honoring of John Galliano. This decision is especially important given the current climate of rising antisemitism, and it was crucial to address the harm and distress this exhibition was causing.”
Image Source: [Link to Image](https://vaticancitypost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/default-225.jpeg)