John Galliano pulls out of Met Gala exhibit after antisemitism backlash

Fashion designer John Galliano has canceled an exhibition of his work that was scheduled to launch New York's Met Gala next spring. The decision comes after criticism from donors and political leaders regarding his past antisemitic remarks. Galliano stated on Instagram that he decided, with sadness, that it was best for the exhibition not to proceed at this time, acknowledging accountability for the pain caused by his past words, particularly to the Jewish and Asian communities. A French court convicted Galliano in 2011 for making racist and antisemitic comments, which led to his dismissal from Dior. The Metropolitan Museum of Art had planned the nine-month exhibition, but prominent Jewish figures voiced opposition.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art has canceled its planned Met Gala exhibit honoring fashion designer John Galliano. The decision was made jointly by the museum and Galliano after significant backlash from the Jewish community and others due to his past antisemitic and racist remarks. Galliano expressed his deep regret for the pain caused by his words. The exhibit was slated to launch the 2027 Met Gala, but the museum will announce a new show for that event at a later date. Critics, including New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin, praised the cancellation, deeming it the correct decision amid rising antisemitism.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art has cancelled an upcoming exhibition honoring fashion designer John Galliano after facing significant backlash. The exhibition, titled "John Galliano: Horizons," was scheduled to coincide with the spring Met Gala. Galliano himself announced the cancellation, stating it was best for the exhibition not to proceed at this time and acknowledging the pain caused by his past racist and antisemitic remarks, for which he was convicted of a hate crime in France in 2011. The Met confirmed the decision was made jointly with Galliano after thoughtful discussions. Opposition to the exhibition had grown among Jewish leaders and donors, with some threatening to withdraw gifts. The museum stated that details about a new spring exhibition and the 2027 Met Gala will be announced later.