Met Gala Drops John Galliano Exhibition After Antisemitism Backlash

by HEDNEWS on August 31, 2026

John Galliano will no longer be the subject of a planned Metropolitan Museum of Art exhibition linked to the 2027 Met Gala following widespread criticism over the fashion designer’s past antisemitic and racist remarks. The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Galliano jointly announced that the planned Spring 2027 Costume Institute exhibition, “John Galliano Horizons,” will not proceed as originally planned.The exhibition was expected to examine Galliano’s four decade career and would have been the third solo Costume Institute exhibition dedicated to a living designer. However, the decision to honour Galliano sparked strong opposition from members of the Jewish community, public officials and others who pointed to his controversial remarks that led to his dismissal from Christian Dior in 2011 and a conviction in France for hate speech. Galliano said he had decided, after reflection and discussions with those involved, that it was best for the exhibition not to take place at this time. He expressed regret for the pain caused by his past words and said he remained accountable for his actions. The Met’s director, Max Hollein, supported the decision, while Costume Institute curator Andrew Bolton acknowledged the concerns and the responsibility of museums to address difficult histories with care.The controversy intensified after the original announcement of the exhibition, with some critics arguing that giving Galliano such a prominent platform risked appearing to celebrate his career despite his past conduct. Reports also said some museum donors threatened to withdraw financial support if the exhibition went ahead. Anna Wintour, a leading figure behind the Met Gala, also backed the decision, describing Galliano’s withdrawal as courageous. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is expected to announce a replacement exhibition for the 2027 Costume Institute and the associated Met Gala at a later date.