In March 2011, a video on the Internet went viral after the American designer was caught on camera making antisemitic slurs to patrons in a café in Paris. Other comments soon surfaced in which he stated his love for Hitler on three different occasions, and he was subsequently fired as creative director of the Christian Dior fashion house.
Galliano’s comeback, after reportedly being in an Arizona rehab centre for alcoholism and a Valium addiction, comes courtesy of his close friend, fashion legend Oscar de la Renta, who has Galliano working in his New York studio in the runup to New York Fashion Week.
“He has worked long and hard on his recovery,” De la Renta said, “and I’m happy to give him the opportunity to re-immerse himself in the world of fashion and re-acclimate in an environment where he has been so creative.”
Abraham Foxman, director of the Anti-defamation League said of Galliano: “We believe that individuals can change their hearts and minds as long as they demonstrate true contrition. Mr. Galliano has worked arduously in changing his worldview and dedicated a significant amount of time to researching, reading, and learning about the evils of antisemitism and bigotry. Along his journey to recovery he met with us on numerous occasions. He has accepted full responsibility for his previous remarks and understands that hurtful comments have no place in our society.
“Everyone in life deserves a second chance, especially someone as talented as John,” de la Renta told Women's Wear Daily.
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