The National Wax Museum Plus in Dublin recently faced backlash after unveiling a wax figure of the late singer Sinead O’Connor, which fans and family deemed unrecognizable. The museum, which intended to honor O’Connor on the first anniversary of her death, was compelled to remove the figure just one day after its display due to the outcry.
John O’Connor, the singer’s brother, criticized the wax figure, describing it as a “hideous” representation that resembled a department store mannequin or a character from a 1960s sci-fi show. He expressed his shock and disappointment, noting that the figure did not capture his sister’s likeness. “When I saw it online yesterday I was shocked,” he told Irish broadcaster RTE. “I thought it looked something between a mannequin and something out of the Thunderbirds.”
The museum acknowledged the criticism and issued an apology to O’Connor’s family, promising to create a more accurate representation. “In response to the public’s feedback regarding the wax figure, we acknowledge that the current representation did not meet our high standards or the expectations of Sinead’s devoted fans,” said Paddy Dunning, the museum’s director, who also mentioned his long-time friendship with O’Connor.
The unveiling on July 25 was intended to commemorate the first anniversary of O’Connor’s death on July 26, 2023. The singer, known for her 1990 hit cover of Prince’s ballad “Nothing Compares 2 U,” passed away at 56 due to natural causes in her London home. Despite her controversial career, including the infamous moment when she tore up a photo of Pope John Paul II on “Saturday Night Live” in 1992, O’Connor was revered as a national treasure in Ireland. Her funeral procession in her former seaside hometown attracted many fans, as well as prominent figures like former Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, President Michael Higgins, and musicians Bono and Bob Geldof.
This incident is not the first time a celebrity wax figure has sparked controversy. Similar instances have occurred globally, such as a Polish wax museum’s criticized depictions of Prince William and Kate, the Princess of Wales. Additionally, sculptors have faced ridicule for their works, including a bronze statue of Cristiano Ronaldo and a plaque of US soccer star Brandi Chastain, both of which required revisions.
John O’Connor also expressed frustration over the timing of the unveiling and the lack of communication with the family. “As I said earlier, the world may have lost a star, and they did, but I lost my sister,” he stated. “It just should not have been put there even without checking with somebody: ‘Is this all right?’”
The museum’s commitment to rectify the issue underscores the importance of respecting the legacies of beloved public figures and ensuring their tributes are fitting and accurate.
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