The CEO and president of the group behind New York Fashion Week will take a voluntary leave of absence after he was caught on video tackling PETA protesters who disrupted a major runway show Sunday.
Council of Fashion Designers of America CEO Steven Kolb made the announcement after he grabbed two of the animal rights activists and covered their mouths as they stormed the COS Spring 2027 Fashion Week event to chant about banning wool in Manhattan.
“What happened was completely out of character for me, both personally and as a leader,” Kolb said Monday in a statement to NBC News.
“As I review the videos, I understand the reaction they have generated. Frankly, I don’t recognize that person. As a result, I am taking a voluntary leave from work and meeting with a professional to ensure it never happens again.”
The PETA protesters were waving signs and chanting in front of the A-list audience when Kolb’s meltdown unfolded, the the shocking clip showed.
He put his hands around PETA campaigner Mason Melito and covered his mouth to stop him from chanting before the animal rights advocate was hauled out by security.
Kolb was then seen grabbing another protester — who yelled about the need to “Protect sheep!” — to the ground, covering her mouth and restraining her by the wrists.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
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