A planned exhibition to honor designer John Galliano, slated to be part of the 2027 Met Gala, will not move forward after the designer requested its postponement. The decision comes amid backlash over Galliano's 2011 conviction for hate crimes related to antisemitic comments.
In a statement released Monday, Galliano thanked the Metropolitan Museum of Art, lead chairperson Anna Wintour, and others, stating he did not want to place the museum's Costume Institute "in a difficult position." He added, "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 also noted 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."
The designer was fired from his role as creative director at Dior in 2011 following two incidents involving hateful remarks. Video evidence showed Galliano expressing admiration for Adolf Hitler and making derogatory comments about Jewish people. At the time, Galliano stated he had no recollection of the incidents, attributing his behavior to the influence of drugs and alcohol.
According to The New York Times, the planned exhibition generated significant backlash, including threats from donors to withdraw their financial support from the museum. Vogue reported that Anna Wintour, a key figure in expanding the Met Gala's cultural influence, called the cancellation "the right decision" and described Galliano's request as "very courageous."
The exhibition, titled "John Galliano: Horizons," was announced in July and was scheduled to open in the spring of 2027. Vogue indicated that a replacement exhibition would be announced at a later date.