Met Gala Cancels John Galliano Exhibit Amid Controversy
Museum reverses course on 2027 fashion tribute following designer's past antisemitic and racist remarks.
Callum Smith
The Metropolitan Museum of Art has canceled its planned Met Gala exhibit focused on John Galliano.
Max Hollein, the Metropolitan Museum of Art director and chief executive officer, confirmed the decision to not proceed with the exhibition. He stated, "Following thoughtful discussions with John Galliano, we have together decided not to proceed with the exhibition."
Galliano himself acknowledged the decision, stating, "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."
I understand that meaningful atonement is not achieved through an exhibition, institutional recognition or a single public gesture. It is a continuing responsibility, demonstrated through listening, learning and one’s conduct over time.
He added, "I understand that meaningful atonement is not achieved through an exhibition, institutional recognition or a single public gesture. It is a continuing responsibility, demonstrated through listening, learning and one’s conduct over time."
Galliano further stated, "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 for it."
The cancellation follows Galliano's antisemitic and racist comments made in 2010 and 2011, which led to his conviction and the loss of his creative director position at Dior.
His Legion of Honour was reportedly rescinded, and he was fired from his self-named brand after the 2011 incident.
Despite these past events, a 2024 documentary explored Galliano's redemption; he served as the creative director of Maison Margiela from 2014 to 2024.
Religious leaders were reportedly furious over the planned tribute to Galliano at the gala, with Julie Menin claiming the Met's initial decision to honour him was a mistake.
Menin further asserted that the museum must be held to a high standard of inclusiveness and tolerance.
John’s decision that the exhibition devoted to his work should not take place at this time is very courageous and a measure of the man he is.
Anna Wintour, who has supported Galliano's career, remarked, "John’s decision that the exhibition devoted to his work should not take place at this time is very courageous and a measure of the man he is."
Wintour concluded, "I believe this is the right decision, and both he and the museum have my full support."
Rumours erupted of a row between those involved in the fashion fundraiser, and the Met Gala has reportedly taken the unprecedented step of cancelling its theme for 2027 after the withdrawal of its honouree.
Plans for the 2027 Met Gala exhibition will be announced at a later date.
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