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CFDA CEO on Leave After Runway Altercation
14 Sep
Summary
- CFDA CEO Steven Kolb was placed on leave after a physical altercation.
- Kolb restrained animal rights activists during a PETA protest at NYFW.
- The incident occurred at the Cos show, owned by H&M, on Sunday.
Steven Kolb, CEO of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), was placed on leave on Monday, September 13, 2026. This action follows a physical altercation he had with two animal rights activists on Sunday, September 12, 2026. The incident unfolded during the Cos runway show, owned by H&M, amidst New York Fashion Week.
Animal rights activists from PETA stormed the show, protesting the use of sheep's wool. During the disruption, Kolb rose from his seat and physically restrained at least two protesters. Video evidence captured Kolb wrestling one demonstrator to the ground and covering her mouth. He later issued a statement acknowledging his inappropriate reaction and wishing he had let security manage the situation.
The confrontation gained widespread attention, leading to public calls for action against Kolb. This event occurred shortly after the Metropolitan Museum of Art postponed an exhibit honoring John Galliano due to past controversies. The CFDA had previously committed to not promoting animal fur at official New York Fashion Week events.
