Lorraine Kelly says King Charles' new portrait looks like 'gates of hell' with brutal critique

Lorraine Kelly has expressed her strong disapproval of the new portrait of King Charles III, unveiled at Buckingham Palace earlier this week, likening it to peering through the "gates of hell".

The painting, created by esteemed artist Jonathan Yeo, depicts His Majesty in the uniform of the Welsh Guards, set against a striking red background. This piece is particularly significant as it represents the first official portrait of the monarch following his Coronation and commemorates his 50-year association with The Drapers' Company.

Despite the significance, Lorraine was less than impressed when discussing the 8.5ft by 6.5ft artwork on her show, candidly remarking "it's a no from me". She humorously noted the resemblance between the King's portrayal and the Ghostbusters antagonist Vigo the Carpathian, describing the similarity as "uncanny".

Continuing her critique, she quipped: "I have to say I'm not a fan. I kind of think he's looking at me through the gates of hell, I don't like it. I think maybe when you see it in real true life, it might be different. But it's a no from me. So sorry Jonathan, I apologise, I know you spent ages doing that."

Her frank take resonated with viewers, reports the Mirror, with one audience member echoing her sentiment on social media: "Lorraine Kelly just said 'it looks like he's looking at me from the gates of hell' on her ITV show. Yikes, and I agree... it feels bloody."

"King Charles just unveiled his new portrait of himself Burning in Hell," commented an unimpressed observer, while another described the artwork as simply "creepy and disturbing". On the other end of the spectrum, some royal enthusiasts have shown admiration for the work, with one declaring: "I don't know why I like Jonathan Yeo's portrait of King Charles so much. I really do think it is special."

Another enthusiast chimed in with praise, saying: "It is a remarkable portrait, powerful and timely. King Charles III is turning out to be a significant monarch in many ways."

In a distinctively bold move, the painting includes a butterfly which represents the transformation Charles has experienced since his official crowning in May last year.

Speaking on the symbolic elements of the painting, artist Jonathan revealed: "In [the] history of art, the butterfly symbolises metamorphosis and rebirth."

The concept to include this transformative symbol was reportedly brainstormed by the king himself.

Jonathan candidly added that Charles had been "initially mildly surprised" by the vibrancy of the colours, "but otherwise he seemed to be smiling approvingly". He further confessed: "My interest is really in figuring out who someone is and trying to get that on a canvas."

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