The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York announced Monday that the planned 2027 spring exhibition featuring fashion designer John Galliano will not proceed as scheduled. The decision follows a joint statement from Galliano and the museum, which confirmed the cancellation after weeks of public backlash.
The exhibition, initially intended to coincide with the 2027 Met Gala, was intended to showcase Galliano’s four-decade career in fashion. However, the project was abandoned after renewed scrutiny of Galliano’s past antisemitic and racist remarks, which resurfaced amid promotional discussions for the exhibit.
In a social media statement, Galliano acknowledged the controversy and expressed remorse. “After much reflection and discussion, with all those involved, I’ve decided, with great sadness, that it is best for the exhibition not to take place at this time,” he wrote. The Met confirmed in a separate statement that the exhibition “will not proceed as planned.”
Galliano’s history of offensive statements dates back to 2011, when he was convicted of antisemitic behavior in a French court. The remarks, which included antisemitic slurs, led to his immediate dismissal from Christian Dior, where he served as creative director. Galliano later issued an apology, stating: “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.”
The cancellation marks the latest development in a long-standing debate over whether Galliano’s artistic contributions should be separated from his past conduct. Supporters of the exhibition had argued that his work should be evaluated independently of his personal history, while critics maintained that his past actions made him an unsuitable figure for institutional celebration.
The Met has not indicated whether a replacement exhibition will be planned for the 2027 Met Gala. The museum did not respond to requests for further comment beyond its initial statement.