The unveiling of Zendaya’s latest wax figure at Madame Tussauds New York on January 7 has ignited a passionate conversation online, as fans and critics alike react to the statue’s resemblance to the star. The Zendaya wax figure controversy centers on whether the figure pays true tribute to the acclaimed actress or falls short of expectations, reflecting the broader trend of public scrutiny toward celebrity likenesses at notable museums.
Debuting Zendaya’s Tenth Wax Figure in New York
Madame Tussauds New York showcased its newest addition to the collection—a wax representation of Zendaya crafted to mirror her appearance wearing a custom Bottega Veneta outfit from a February 2024 event in Mexico City, where she attended a Dune: Part Two fan gathering. The figure even sports a replica of her engagement ring, referencing her relationship with Tom Holland.
Sculpted over the course of a year by a team of 20 expert artists, the statue’s creation involved hundreds of precise measurements and reference images taken during Zendaya’s original sittings in 2015. This debut marks her tenth wax figure for the museum chain. According to Tiago Mogadouro, General Manager of Madame Tussauds New York, the meticulous process was intended to capture the actress’s presence and enduring influence in both entertainment and fashion.
“Zendaya has earned her place among today’s most recognizable and respected stars,”
Tiago Mogadouro, General Manager of Madame Tussauds New York.
“This figure is a tribute to her lasting impact on both entertainment and fashion.”
Reactions Split Across Social Media Platforms
Despite the intense preparation and artisan effort, reaction to the newest wax figure was far from unanimous. Many supporters and detractors voiced their opinions, framing the Zendaya wax figure controversy as a reflection point on how faithfully these figures capture celebrity likenesses. On social media, some questioned the figure’s accuracy, while others praised the work and its attention to detail.
One fan’s reaction online highlighted their skepticism, stating,
“It’s good if you only stare at it for like 4 seconds,”
before continuing,
“Any longer and you realize that ain’t remotely Z. That’s like someone’s Yiddish aunty in her prime.”
Other users echoed doubts with concise remarks such as, “Something’s off,” and, “They did her dirty.” These comments underlined the emotional and nuanced opinions circulating among viewers.
Defenders Praise the Realism of the Statue
The controversy, however, did not go unchallenged. Several admirers pushed back against the criticism, emphasizing the skill involved and defending the artists’ vision. One social media user wrote,
“The wax figure hate is so forced and cringe, this literally looks like Zendaya.”
Others questioned the harshness of the reaction, noting,
“Why is everyone hating? This one actually looks good.”
These expressions revealed that public opinion is divided not just over the statue’s likeness, but also over public expectations for wax artistry in general.
Zendaya’s History with Madame Tussauds
While Zendaya has not commented on the new statue, her previous statements about being featured at Madame Tussauds demonstrate her appreciation for such recognition. The Challengers and Spider-Man: Far From Home star’s connection to the museum dates back to 2015, when she first saw her figures unveiled in both Orlando and San Francisco.
Reflecting on the honor at her original debut event, Zendaya shared her excitement:
“This is a major, major honor,”
she said,
“and it’s so cool to have it in the Bay where I’m from.”
Her sentiments then highlighted the emotional impact and personal meaning that come with this kind of tributed display.
Spotlight on Other Celebrity Wax Figures Around the World
The attention given to Zendaya’s latest statue is part of a larger fascination with celebrity wax figures globally. Madame Tussauds locations in cities from Hollywood to Shanghai have featured some of the world’s most famous personalities. Each figure aims for remarkable likeness—sometimes sparking debate, sometimes earning applause.
Rihanna’s wax version, unveiled in New York ahead of her 2023 Super Bowl performance, showcased her distinctive style. In Las Vegas, Lizzo introduced her own figure with a celebratory spirit, echoing her onstage persona. Shawn Mendes joined the Berlin exhibit with a figure designed to allow fans to pose beside him, adding an element of interaction unique to his display.
Other stars like Ariana Grande, Priyanka Chopra, Meghan Markle, and Prince Harry have seen their likenesses immortalized, with reactions to each unveiling ranging from admiration to critique. Ed Sheeran’s wax figure, for example, drew attention for its uncanny resemblance, complete with signature guitar and flannel shirt, while model Alessandra Ambrosio’s Shanghai debut presented another layer of international appeal.
High-profile names from sports, music, and film fill the museum’s gallery. Visitors encounter Jennifer Lopez, Ryan Gosling, Jon Hamm, and Stephen Curry, each commemorated in iconic style. The presence of figures like Steve Aoki, Miley Cyrus, Angelina Jolie, Zayn Malik, Cody Simpson, and many more highlights Madame Tussauds’ role in connecting fans with cultural icons in a new, tangible way.
The Cultural Resonance of Celebrity Figures
Not every wax figure launch passes without controversy, a common thread among works representing public figures such as Zendaya, Beyoncé, Kendall and Kylie Jenner, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jason Momoa, and Anne Hathaway. Each unveiling typically triggers waves of reflection and debate across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), as fans discuss how well the figures represent reality versus perception.
This ongoing discourse around the Zendaya wax figure controversy illustrates the evolving relationship between celebrity, artistry, and public expectation. Star statues become more than museum pieces—they spark dialogue about fame, representation, and the fine line between exact likeness and artistic interpretation.
With Zendaya’s tenth wax figure now drawing crowds and conversations in New York, Madame Tussauds continues refining its process for honoring renowned individuals. As public reactions unfold, figures such as those of Zendaya, Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Ariana Grande not only celebrate pop culture but also provoke thoughtful consideration of what it means to capture likeness and legacy in wax.
The widespread discussion surrounding Zendaya’s figure suggests the museum’s future unveilings will be met with similar levels of passion, critique, and anticipation, ensuring that wax museums remain a vibrant part of celebrity culture and public conversation.
It’s good if you only stare at it for like 4 seconds. Any longer and you realize that ain’t remotely Z. That’s like someone’s Yiddish aunty in her prime
— Nkechi K. (@NkechiKwenu) January 7, 2026
something's off
— arianators wildin (@eternalsunshine) January 7, 2026
They did her dirty 😭
— Feral (@FeralOnChain) January 7, 2026
why is everyone hating? this one actually looks good pic.twitter.com/JO8ybNiIKl
— glinda (@glindaupland) January 7, 2026
the wax figure hate is so forced and cringe, this literally looks like zendaya https://t.co/VAALJOLBJw
— kevin 🪻 (@kevztus) January 8, 2026
