Dublin museum issues apology and removes “inappropriate” Sinéad O’Connor waxwork
The Wax Museum in Dublin has issued an apology and removed a waxwork of the late Irish singer Sinéad O’Connor following complaints from her family.
The art was unveiled on July 25th to coincide with the first anniversary of her passing, but has already been taken off display after a backlash. O’Connor died in 2023 from natural causes at her residence in London. Shortly before her passing, O’Connor had been back in the studio and had begun work on a new studio album, which was never completed.
Her death was mourned by the musical world, as well as the people of her native Ireland. O’Connor’s family have been grateful for the support they received during the difficult time, sharing in an open letter following her funeral, “The children of Sinéad, together with Sinéad’s extended family, wish to thank the countless kind people who sympathised and offered condolences on Sinéad’s recent passing.”
Although Dublin’s Wax Museum intended to celebrate her legacy, her brother, Josh, made his feelings known on the artwork during an interview on RTÉ’s Liveline radio programme, describing the piece as “inappropriate”. He also stated it was “hideous” and resembled a cross “between a mannequin and something out of the Thunderbirds“.
In light of the comments made by O’Connor’s family and a backlash on social media, the museum have stated: “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 Sinéad’s devoted fans.”
The Wax Museum say they “have listened closely to the reactions” of the public which has led to reach the conclusion “that the figure does not fully capture Sinéad’s unique presence and essence as we intended.”
They still plan on celebrating O’Connor in the future and said that her music has had “immeasurable” influence on Ireland. However, the new tribute will be carried out in the “most fitting and respectful manner” which “better reflects Sinéad O’Connor’s true spirit and iconic image.”
They concluded: “Our team of skilled artists will begin this project immediately, ensuring that every detail is meticulously crafted to celebrate her legacy appropriately.”
The museum director, Paddy Dunning, has taken responsibility for not checking the item before it went on display. Although Dunning typically does so, he “wasn’t in Dublin” and “couldn’t analyse it beforehand”. He also admitted it wasn’t to his taste, adding, “I saw the statue minutes before the reveal, and I did not like it. We still do not know what we will do with this statue for now.”
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