NYC Council Speaker Says Met’s Galliano Exhibit Was a ‘Grave Mistake’: ‘We Give Them Over $3 Million’ (Exclusive)

In a significant turning point for the fashion world, renowned designer John Galliano has stepped down from his role in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s upcoming 2027 Met Gala. The announcement comes after widespread backlash due to Galliano’s well-documented history of antisemitic and racist remarks. The decision was publicly endorsed by New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin, who played a pivotal role in advocating for Galliano’s removal.

On Monday, August 31, the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute confirmed that Galliano’s contributions would no longer be featured at the prestigious gala, which was set to revolve around the theme “John Galliano: Horizons.” This about-face was provoked by mounting criticism following the initial announcement on July 31, which faced backlash from various quarters concerned about Galliano’s past actions.

Galliano, who once enjoyed adulation as a visionary in fashion during the 1990s and early 2000s, became embroiled in controversy in 2011 when he made offensive comments, including expressing admiration for Adolf Hitler at a Parisian restaurant. This incident subsequently led to his conviction for multiple hate crimes in France, resulting in a hefty fine amounting to approximately £6,800.

Speaker Menin, who was among the first officials to publicly call for Galliano to withdraw from the event, has expressed her dismay at the initial decision. “The New York City Council provides over £2.5 million in discretionary grants to the Metropolitan Museum for educational programmes,” she articulated in an interview. “This was not just a misstep; it was a serious error in judgment, and I was determined to voice my concerns.”

She continued to underscore the gravity of the situation, indicating that the decision to elevate someone with such a controversial background warranted extensive discussion within the museum’s board. “This sort of decision should have been thoroughly vetted. Celebrating someone with such a history is unacceptable, especially in the context of rising antisemitism both locally and globally,” Menin remarked.

While the Met has not yet finalised a replacement theme for the 2027 gala, sources suggest that Anna Wintour, the Met Gala chair, has several alternative plans in development. Insiders have indicated that the museum received considerable backlash from prominent donors, many of whom threatened to withdraw their financial support if Galliano was honoured. Rumblings of potentially showcasing a Jewish designer have surfaced, but an official announcement remains pending.

Galliano’s illustrious career began at Givenchy in 1995, and he later held the position of creative director at Dior from 1997 until 2011. Since 2014, he has been at the helm of the Parisian fashion house Maison Margiela. In a recent documentary, Galliano addressed his past controversies candidly, referring to his previous remarks as “disgusting” and recognising the ongoing need for self-reflection and growth.

In his formal statement regarding the Met Gala, Galliano expressed his deep sorrow over the situation, acknowledging the longstanding pain inflicted by his words. “I remain fully accountable for the hurt caused to the Jewish and Asian communities and feel that the exhibition should not proceed at this time,” he stated. He further explained that meaningful atonement comes from ongoing education and responsible behaviour rather than from public showcases.

Wintour, who has long been a significant figure in the fashion industry, backed Galliano’s decision, describing it as courageous. “I believe this is the right decision for both him and the museum,” she commented, emphasising her support for both the designer and the institution.

As the Metropolitan Museum of Art prepares for the 2027 gala, anticipation grows for the new direction of the exhibition and gala theme. With promises from officials for a revised announcement in the near future, both the institution and its supporters await further developments in a landscape now marked by heightened awareness of social responsibility and the repercussions of past actions.