John Galliano announced on August 31, 2026, he was canceling the planned nine-month exhibition of his work at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art originally set to open with the 2027 Met Gala [1, 2, 3, 4].

The exhibition, titled "John Galliano: Horizons," would have made Galliano only the third living designer to receive a solo show at the Met's Costume Institute [3]. However, the decision came amid criticism from donors, political leaders, and prominent Jewish figures concerned about Galliano’s past antisemitic and racial remarks that led to his 2011 conviction by a French court [1, 2, 3, 4]. Galliano was previously fired from Dior following the 2011 incident in which he hurled antisemitic and racial slurs in a Paris bar [1, 2, 4].

In a statement, Galliano said, "After much reflection and discussion with all those involved, I have decided, with great sadness, that it is best for the exhibition not to take place at this time" [1]. He expressed regret and took full accountability for the pain caused by his past comments, saying, "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" [2]. He also stated, "I do not want the debate surrounding me to place the Met in a difficult position or to distract from the remarkable work of the Costume Institute. I also recognise and respect that an exhibition honoring my work would be painful for some" [2].

The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Galliano mutually agreed not to proceed with the exhibition. Andrew Bolton, curator of the Costume Institute, supported the decision, stating, "I believe deeply in the responsibility of museums to examine difficult histories with rigor, candor, and care. I also recognize the pain and concern this exhibition has caused" [1]. Anna Wintour, a trustee of the Met, likewise expressed full support for the cancellation, describing Galliano's decision as "very courageous" [1, 4].

Key opposition to the exhibition came from figures including art dealer Arne Glimcher and New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin, adding to pressure on the museum and Galliano [1, 2, 4].

The planned exhibition was to open with the Met Gala in May 2027 and run for nine months [1, 2, 3, 4]. Galliano, 65 years old at the time of the announcement, has been in recovery and sobriety for 15 years since his conviction [1, 2, 4].