Amanda Holden has sparked backlash after sharing a Halloween post that included what appeared to be a real photograph of a murder victim's corpse. The Britain's Got Talent judge, 55, dressed up as notorious American murder suspect Lizzie Borden, but her Instagram post divided fans.
Costume and Controversial Photo
Holden, who hosts Heart Breakfast, shared a series of snaps showing off her costume with the caption: "Getting away with murder… on @thisisheart #lizzieborden". The post also reportedly included an original crime scene photograph showing the body of Lizzie's father, Andrew Borden, who was murdered with a hatchet in 1892.
The image left some followers stunned, with several questioning why Holden had included such a graphic historical photograph in a light-hearted Halloween post.
Fan Reactions
One Instagram user wrote: "This is not it, dressing up as non fictional killers never sat right with me but to also put up the body of the victim is crazy." Another commented: "Great halloween outfit however I don't think posting the original photo of the deceased was a great idea... disappointing @thisisheart."
A third added: "Does she know the second photo is a real picture hahahahahahahah." Others were equally uncomfortable, with one follower writing: "Hmm pic 2 should definitely come with a trigger warning." Another said: "Find it insane how desensitised everyone is these days. This isn’t it."
However, Holden also received positive comments from fans who praised her costume, with one writing: "Brilliant", while another added: "This is incredible." The controversy was also discussed on Reddit, where users questioned the decision to include the original crime scene image. One person wrote: "I’m kind of lost for words."
Image Removed and Context
It appears the image was later removed from the Instagram carousel, although it still appears on Holden's official, verified Facebook page. The Halloween look was seemingly part of a promotional tie-in with Netflix, with Holden referencing the broadcaster's dramatisation of the Borden case in her caption.
Lizzie Borden was accused of murdering her father Andrew and stepmother Abby in their Massachusetts home in 1892. She was acquitted following a trial, meaning the killings remain one of America's most notorious unsolved mysteries. Holden has yet to publicly address the backlash over the photograph.
