Galliano faces jail despite apology over anti-Semitic rants
Designer John Galliano, who was sacked from fashion house Christian Dior this week following his anti-Semitic rants in Paris cafe, may face upto six months in jail despite his public apology.
The British designer, who created an uproar with his controversial comments, has issued a statement apologising his behaviour, the Hollywood Reporter said.
"Anti-Semitism and racism have no part in our society. I unreservedly apologize for my behavior in causing any offence," the flamboyant desinger said in a statement.
But the designer, 55, will go on trial over the accusations, the French public prosecutor's office said.
He will go before a court between April and June where he could face up to six months in prison and USD 31,000 in fines if convicted.Galliano, however, defended himself saying he was provoked and subjected to verbal harassment before the incident.
"I was subjected to verbal harassment and an unprovoked assault when an individual tried to hit me with a chair having taken violent exception to my look and my clothing...For these reasons I have commenced proceedings for defamation and the threats made against me," the designer added.
Galliano has been the face of the fashion house for many years and has dressed Hollywood A-listers like Nicole Kidman and Charlize Theron among others.Israel born Natalie Portman, the spokeswoman for Miss Dior Cherie perfume, issued a statement saying she was "disgusted" by Galliano's behaviour.
