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US fashion council chief Steven Kolb resigns after being filmed physically restraining PETA protesters at New York runway show

From the Newshound archive · first published 19 September 2026 · last updated 20 September 2026.

A PETA protester is forced to the ground in a corridor at a New York runway show, footage that contributed to Steven Kolb apologising and taking a leave of absence before ultimately resigning as head of the Council of…
A PETA protester is forced to the ground in a corridor at a New York runway show, footage that contributed to Steven Kolb apologising and taking a leave of absence before ultimately resigning as head of the Council of…

Steven Kolb, who spent two decades leading the Council of Fashion Designers of America, has stepped down after video showed him pushing, wrestling to the ground and covering the mouths of two PETA activists at a Cos show during New York Fashion Week. The CFDA board, which includes Ralph Lauren, Thom Browne, Tory Burch and Michael Kors, said it respected his decision and called him a "dedicated leader." Kolb had already apologised for his actions and been placed on leave pending an internal investigation before announcing his resignation on Friday.

PETA protester Mason Melito said Kolb's behaviour was "completely uncalled for" and described the moment as scary.

PETA had originally intended to report Kolb to police but dropped that plan following a visit to the station, and was instead pursuing a meeting aimed at persuading the industry to stop using wool and animal skins.

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