The Metropolitan Museum of Art has withdrawn a planned John Galliano exhibition that was expected to anchor the Costume Institute's 2027 spring program. The decision follows renewed debate over remarks the designer made more than a decade ago.
Galliano had previously apologized for his antisemitic and anti-Asian comments and said he had sought counseling. The museum also said it had consulted with Jewish groups while developing the project, yet concerns continued to grow after the exhibition was announced in late July.
According to the museum, the cancellation came after extensive discussions with Galliano. Met director Max Hollein said the institution chose not to move forward after thoughtful conversations, while curator Andrew Bolton said he supported the decision.
Galliano said he understood the exhibition could be painful for some audiences and emphasized that accountability is a long-term responsibility. Former Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, a Met trustee, also backed the move.
The museum has not yet announced what will replace the show, but the annual Met Gala is still expected to take place alongside the Costume Institute's 2027 season. The development may shape how major museums balance artistic legacy, public trust, and cultural responsibility in the years ahead.
