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A wax figure of the late Sinéad O’Connor is set to be reimagined by the National Wax Museum in Dublin following significant public criticism regarding its initial unveiling.
The museum launched the waxwork as part of a tribute to the iconic Irish singer and activist, coinciding with the one-year anniversary of her passing. O’Connor, known for her profound impact on music and culture, was found deceased at her home in south London in July 2023 at the age of 56.
The original wax figure, revealed last Thursday, was intended to celebrate O’Connor’s legacy. However, after feedback from the public, the museum decided to withdraw the figure to construct a more accurate likeness that truly reflects her spirit.
Among the voices of discontent was O’Connor’s brother, John, who expressed his shock upon seeing the figure online. He described it as “inappropriate” and aesthetically displeasing, noting that it did not resemble his sister at all. He remarked that the waxwork appeared to be a cross between a mannequin and something out of a puppet show.
The museum addressed the backlash in a statement, acknowledging that the existing representation fell short of both their standards and the expectations of O’Connor’s fans. They committed to creating a new figure that captures her unique essence more faithfully.
New figure to ‘truly honour’ singer
The museum emphasized O’Connor’s “immeasurable” influence on the music industry and asserted its dedication to commemorating the late artist in a manner that is both respectful and fitting. The museum has tasked its skilled artists with this project, ensuring meticulous attention to detail in order to celebrate O’Connor’s legacy appropriately. They expressed optimism about revealing a new figure that would genuinely honor her remarkable contributions to music and culture.
Who is Sinéad O’Connor?
Born on December 8, 1966, in Dublin’s affluently situated Glenageary, Sinéad Marie Bernadette O’Connor burst onto the music scene in 1987 with her debut album, *The Lion and the Cobra*, which garnered her a Grammy nomination for best female rock vocal performance. However, her rendition of Prince’s “Nothing Compares 2 U” in 1990 propelled her to international stardom.
O’Connor was recognized for her candid views on various issues, including religion, women’s rights, and racism. A pivotal moment in her career came in 1992 when during a performance on *Saturday Night Live*, she tore up a photo of Pope John Paul II as a statement against child sexual abuse within the Catholic Church.
In 2018, she embraced Islam and changed her name to Shuhada Sadaqat but continued to perform under her birth name. Tragically, on July 26, 2023, she was found unresponsive in her home and later pronounced dead. A coroner ruled her death to be due to natural causes.
O’Connor’s funeral in August 2023 was attended by thousands who lined the streets of her hometown, Bray, in County Wicklow, showcasing the profound affection and respect that many held for the artist and activist throughout her life.
Source
www.bbc.com