A planned exhibition honouring fashion designer John Galliano at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art has been cancelled. The exhibition, which was set to open for the upcoming spring's Met Gala, had faced controversy and backlash.
Mr Galliano announced the decision on Monday, stating that he had decided, with sadness, that it was best for the exhibition not to take place at this time. He also wrote that he remained accountable for the pain caused by his past words, particularly to the Jewish and Asian communities.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art director and chief executive officer, Max Hollein, confirmed the decision, stating it was made following thoughtful discussions with Mr Galliano. The museum's decision to honour Mr Galliano had drawn criticism due to his conviction for a hate crime by a French court in 2011, following a series of racist and antisemitic remarks.