Prince William, Kate Middleton wax figures sparks 'creepy' backlash

Madame Tussauds London has found itself at the center of an unexpected controversy after Prince William and Kate Middleton's wax figures sparked reactions online.

The museum recently repositioned the senior royal's likenesses as part of Royal Palace exhibit celebrating William and Kate's 15th wedding anniversary.

The updated figures feature outfits inspired by the pair's appearance at the 2023 Diplomatic Reception at Buckingham palace.

An insider told Radar Online, "There's been a surprisingly intense backlash to these updated waxworks – far beyond the usual criticism you might expect."

"Some royal fans have taken to private Telegram groups to vent their frustration, and in more extreme cases, there's even been talk of trying to snatch the figures because they find them so unsettling. It's created a situation where security concerns are being taken very seriously," the source added.

They went on to add, "For some, the issue is that the figures fall into that uncanny space where they're almost lifelike but not quite, which can be deeply uncomfortable."

"When you're dealing with figures as recognizable as William and Catherine, even the slightest perceived inaccuracy gets amplified, and that's clearly what's happening here. Fans have been saying the new waxworks just make them look creepy and not like themselves," they added.

On the other hand, visitors have also voiced mixed reactions with one attendee saying, "I hate Madame Tussauds – the figures just look off and creepy. I have actually seen some royal fans in tears of despair, and others saying they were being left terrified by the creepy looks of the models."

Meanwhile one waxworks specialist noted, "Wax figures operate in a narrow space between lifelike and artificial, and when that balance tips, it can create discomfort rather than admiration."

Adding that Prince William and Kate Middleton are among the most "photographed people" in the world, therefore even the slightest inaccuracy become highly noticeable.