The Metropolitan Museum of Art has officially canceled its planned 2027 Costume Institute spring exhibition and gala, which were set to honor British fashion designer John Galliano. The announcement, made on Monday, August 31, follows intense public scrutiny and criticism regarding the designer’s history of offensive conduct.
Max Hollein, the director and CEO of The Met, confirmed the decision in a formal statement, noting that the museum and the designer reached the conclusion after engaging in thoughtful discussions. Galliano expressed his gratitude for the initial invitation but stated that after significant reflection, he did not want the controversy surrounding his past to distract from the Costume Institute’s work or place the museum in a difficult position.
The designer, who has held prominent creative roles at Dior and Givenchy and currently maintains a two-year partnership with Zara, faced a major career decline in 2011. That year, he was arrested for antisemitic and racist incidents, including a widely publicized video in which he expressed support for Hitler while intoxicated at a Paris bar. Following his conviction for hate crimes and subsequent fines, Galliano entered rehabilitation and remained largely out of the public eye until his 2014 appointment as creative director of Maison Margiela.
Andrew Bolton, the Curator in Charge of The Costume Institute, acknowledged the pain the proposed exhibition caused. He stated that while he believes museums have a responsibility to examine complex histories with care, he recognizes the valid concerns raised by the public and supports the decision to halt the project. He expressed gratitude to the various advisors and community leaders who contributed to the initial planning process.
Anna Wintour also voiced her support for the cancellation, describing Galliano’s choice to withdraw as a courageous measure. She affirmed that the museum and the designer have her full backing in this decision, which she considers the correct path forward.
In a personal statement, Galliano reiterated his accountability for his past actions, specifically citing the hurt he caused to the Asian and Jewish communities. He emphasized that he does not believe institutional recognition or exhibitions can serve as a form of atonement, which he views as a continuous responsibility involving ongoing conduct and learning. He also thanked those who supported his fifteen-year journey of sobriety and recovery.
The announcement of the 2027 theme had previously triggered a significant online backlash, with critics questioning the appropriateness of honoring a designer with such a documented history of hate speech. The criticism extended to political circles, including New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin, who had sent a letter to the museum urging a reconsideration of the theme.
Following the cancellation, Menin issued a statement expressing her relief, noting that the original decision had felt like a “gut punch” to the Jewish community during a time of rising antisemitism. She commended the museum for listening to public concerns and prioritizing inclusiveness and tolerance.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art has confirmed that a new theme for the 2027 spring exhibition will be announced at a later date. The report also notes that the catalyst for the backlash to his selection as the subject of the Met’s exhibit and its accompanying gala, but the designer suffered a fall from grace in 2011 after he was arrested for antisemitic and racist incidents. The report also notes that the news of the 2027 Met exhibition elicited a range of reactions online. The report also notes that with legendary creative director roles at Dior and Givenchy and designs beloved by stars like Nicole Kidman, Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, Charlize Theron and even Princess Diana, galliano – who recently began a two-year creative partnership with Zara – has been known as one of the greatest fashion visionaries. The report also notes that lenders, collaborators, and community leaders who contributed their knowledge, trust, and perspectives to the project.”, i remain deeply grateful to my colleagues and to the advisors. The report also notes that after much reflection and discussion with The Met and all those involved, I have decided, with great sadness, that it is best for the exhibition not to take place at this time. The report also notes that i also recognise and respect that an exhibition honouring my work would be painful for some.
