Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has sparked fury among Britons for singing “Bohemian Rhapsody” in a hotel lobby just two days before Queen Elizabeth II ’s funeral.
The Liberal leader was captured singing the hit song by rock band Queen during his stay at The Corinthia Hotel in London over the weekend.
Trudeau, 50, is seen in casual-wear of a maroon T-shirt and dark jeans, standing next to a piano in the hotel lobby while boldly singing out lyrics from the Freddie Mercury song.
In the clip, Trudeau can be seen with members of the Canadian delegation to the funeral, including piano player Gregory Charles.
Critics were soon to slap down the leader for being insensitive and having fun during the official mourning period for the former Queen.
Footage shared on social media of the singalong was soon met with criticism towards Trudeau for acting “inappropriate.”
“I actually love a good piano bar. Haven’t gone to one since before Covid, this reminds me I should check one out near me,” tweeted Toronto Sun journalist Brian Lilley.
“PM at the Savoy in London last night singing a little Queen….for the Queen…”
But one critic, writer Keean Bexte, replied to Lilley’s tweet saying it was “one of the most embarrassing Trudeau moments to date.”
“I don’t think the Brits are going to appreciate Trudeau partying on the eve of their beloved queen’s funeral,” said someone else.
Another critic tweeted: “It’s an unbecoming, undignified display and completely inappropriate given the circumstances and his position.”
The Prime Minister of Canada’s Office confirmed on Monday that Trudeau and a small group of the Canadian delegation enjoyed some piano in the Corinthia Hotel lobby on Saturday night.
The spokesperson said in a statement: “After dinner on Saturday, Prime Minister joined a small gathering with members of the Canadian delegation, who have come together to pay tribute to the life and service of Her Majesty.”
It continued: “Gregory Charles, a renowned musician from Quebec and Order of Canada recipient, played the piano in the hotel lobby which resulted in some members of the delegation including the prime minister joining.
“Over the past 10 days, the Prime Minister has taken part in various activities to pay his respects to the Queen, and today, the entire delegation is taking part in the State Funeral.”
Just hours earlier, Mr Trudeau visited Westminster Nall to pay his respects to Queen Elizabeth II, whose coffin was lying in state.
Mr Trudeau also met with Britain’s new prime minister, Liz Truss, during his visit to the funeral.
On Monday, Trudeau and his wife Sophie Gregoire Trudeau led Canada’s delegation to the Queen’s funeral at Westminster Abbey.
