Steven Kolb resigns as CFDA CEO after PETA protester altercation

Steven Kolb has resigned as the CEO and president of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) after a two-decade tenure. His departure follows a widely circulated video showing him physically restraining two PETA protesters during a COS runway show at New York Fashion Week.

The incident occurred when activists interrupted the presentation to protest the use of sheep’s wool. Video footage captured Kolb forcibly restraining the protesters and covering their mouths. Kolb had previously taken a voluntary leave of absence and issued an apology, stating his reaction was “inappropriate” and that he should have allowed security to handle the situation.

The CFDA board of directors released a statement praising Kolb as a “dedicated leader and tireless champion of American fashion,” expressing respect for his decision to step down. PETA indicated that while they had initially considered filing a police report, they still intend to meet with Kolb to discuss animal welfare in the industry.