Elizabeth II or Mrs. Doubtfire? New statue of the late queen goes viral

A new statue commemorating Elizabeth II, Britain's longest-reigning monarch, has faced a wave of criticism, with online commentators comparing the sculpture to Mrs. Doubtfire, the character created by Robin Williams in the 1993 film. The controversial likeness by Anto Brennan, which shows the late queen wearing a headscarf next to her late husband Prince Philip, was recently unveiled in Antrim Castle Gardens in Northern Ireland.

The work was commissioned by the local council. But according to BBCAntrim and Newtownabbey councillor Vera McWilliam said: “We have to be honest, it bears no resemblance to the Queen whatsoever.” Another person asks on the council's Facebook page: “Did you catch the same person who took the Ronaldo picture a few years ago?” (Emanuel Santos' bust of the footballer was widely mocked in 2018).

Brennan still said the new statue captures the Queen “in a dignified pose that reflects her grace, fortitude and lifelong devotion to public service.” Comments on the council's Facebook post appear to have been disabled (smart move).