John Galliano exhibition at New York Met cancelled after backlash

What the report says

John Galliano has cancelled a planned exhibition of his fashion work at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art after the project drew criticism over his past antisemitic remarks. BBC World News reported that the show, titled John Galliano: Horizons, had been due to open in May 2027 and would also have shaped the theme of the following Met Gala.

In a statement on Monday, the British designer said that, after discussions with the museum and others involved, it was best for the exhibition not to go ahead for now. Galliano said he remained accountable for the harm caused by his words, especially to Jewish and Asian communities, and acknowledged that an exhibition celebrating his work could be painful for some. He also said he did not want to distract from the Met’s Costume Institute and referred to his recovery from addiction.

The cancellation follows renewed scrutiny of Galliano’s 2011 conviction for making antisemitic remarks, which led to his dismissal as Dior’s creative director. BBC World News noted that he later returned to high-profile fashion roles, including a decade at Maison Margiela, and that some critics had argued the Met’s plan was inappropriate amid rising concern about antisemitism.

Anna Wintour and other supporters said the decision was the right one, while opponents had described the proposed tribute as harmful to the Jewish community.