John Galliano has withdrawn from a major exhibition that would have celebrated his four-decade fashion career at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The decision follows weeks of renewed criticism surrounding the designer’s past. The show had also become a flashpoint for the 2027 Met Gala. Now, Galliano says he does not want the debate around him to overshadow the Costume Institute.
John Galliano withdraws from his proposed Met exhibition after reflecting on his past
The cancellation follows renewed attention on the John Galliano past controversy. In 2011, Dior fired the designer after antisemitic and racist remarks became public. A French court later convicted him over antisemitic and racist remarks.
In his latest John Galliano apology, the designer said he remains accountable for the pain his words caused, particularly to Jewish and Asian communities. He added that meaningful atonement requires continued listening, learning, and responsible conduct.
The proposed Met Costume Institute retrospective had already sparked criticism when officials announced it in July. Anna Wintour initially defended the project, arguing that the exhibition would address both Galliano’s creative legacy and the darker parts of his history. Her earlier defense of the show drew significant attention.
The John Galliano-Anna Wintour connection also appeared in his withdrawal statement. Galliano thanked Wintour, Hollein and curator Andrew Bolton for supporting the project.
Meanwhile, the Met said it will announce a replacement spring exhibition and new plans for the 2027 Met Gala later.
The John Galliano exhibition cancellation therefore closes one controversy while leaving the Costume Institute with a major gap to fill. For Galliano, the decision shifts the focus back to his continuing efforts to address his past rather than an institutional celebration of his work.
