Blueface Faces Backlash for 'Deranged' Behavior Toward Zendaya Wax Statue

Rapper's interaction with Madame Tussauds Hollywood exhibit sparks investigation and outrage from fans

Feb. 19, 2026 at 2:07pm by Ben Kaplan

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Los Angeles rapper Blueface, known for his hit song 'Thotiana,' is facing criticism after sharing videos of himself appearing to choke the wax figure of actress Zendaya at Madame Tussauds Hollywood. The museum has launched an investigation into the incident, stating that visitors are expected to treat the figures with respect. Blueface's behavior has been deemed 'disgusting' and 'deranged' by fans, who have pointed to the rapper's past legal troubles as a potential factor.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the ongoing debate around the appropriate way for visitors to interact with wax figures, which are designed to be realistic but are ultimately inanimate objects. It also raises questions about the responsibility of celebrities and public figures to model respectful behavior, especially towards women, in the age of social media.

The details

In the video shared by Blueface, he is seen pushing the chair that Zendaya's figure is sitting on, stroking her hair, and then lunging forward to grab her neck. He then swears at the figure and holds his hand there for a few seconds before letting go and smiling at the camera. Madame Tussauds has stated that they are reviewing the incident and will take appropriate action to uphold their standards, which include a warning to visitors not to touch the figures' hair or faces.

  • On February 13, 2026, Blueface shared the video of his interaction with Zendaya's wax figure on social media.

The players

Blueface

A Los Angeles rapper known for his hit song 'Thotiana' and his stage name, which is a reference to the School Yard Crips street gang and the blue faces on $100 bills.

Zendaya

An Oakland-born actress who has a wax figure at Madame Tussauds Hollywood.

Madame Tussauds Hollywood

A wax museum in Hollywood that features realistic wax figures of celebrities and public figures.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I ain't gon' lie. Cardi had me a little nervous, you feel me? When she started shaking that little booty, I damn near forgot the song I was rapping.”

— Blueface (Instagram)

What’s next

Madame Tussauds Hollywood is investigating the incident and will determine what action, if any, to take against Blueface.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing debate around the appropriate way for visitors to interact with wax figures, as well as the responsibility of celebrities to model respectful behavior, especially towards women, in the age of social media.