John Galliano withdraws from Met Museum show after backlash

Fashion designer John Galliano has withdrawn from a planned exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, following an intense backlash over his past antisemitic remarks. In a statement on Instagram, Galliano expressed regret for his past actions and acknowledged causing pain to some. The Metropolitan Museum of Art's director, Max Hollein, confirmed the cancellation of the exhibition in a statement, noting their decision came after discussions with Galliano.

The exhibition had been planned as part of the Met Gala, which traditionally marks the opening of the Costume Institute's spring exhibition. The controversy surrounding Galliano's honor arose as a number of donors and political leaders opposed to his inclusion, citing his 2011 conviction for an antisemitic hate crime. The Met's ties to the city made the decision a political issue, with local politicians like Julie Menin voicing their disapproval.

Despite initial support from Jewish leaders, who deemed Galliano sufficiently repentant, the controversy mounted, with critics questioning why the museum chose to honor him during a time of rising antisemitism.