British Pundit Labels Trump as "Antichrist" Over Controversial Image

On April 12, 2026, former President Donald Trump posted an image on social media that depicted him in a Christ-like manner, which has since drawn significant backlash. British pundit Marina Purkiss, during a segment on the Jeremy Vine show, expressed her shock and offense at the image, labeling Trump as the "Antichrist." Purkiss, who was raised Catholic, stated, “How dare you? That is blasphemous. The picture is blasphemous, it’s a huge disrespect,” emphasizing her belief that Trump has violated multiple commandments.

HuffPost

The image quickly became a focal point of controversy, with many social media users condemning it as "blasphemous" and "deranged." Purkiss's remarks were echoed by others, including some of Trump's followers on Truth Social, who also referred to him as the Antichrist. Critics argue that such imagery could alienate his base, as noted by Axios co-founder Jim VandeHei, who cautioned that portraying oneself as Christ could have negative repercussions for Trump's support.

HuffPost

In response to the uproar, Trump later claimed that the image was intended to portray him as a doctor, not a religious figure. His team has previously shared various memes depicting him in heroic or revered contexts, but the depiction of Trump as Jesus appears to have crossed a line for many observers. The image was removed from his account shortly after the backlash began.

HuffPost

Purkiss's comments reflect a broader sentiment among critics who view Trump's actions as increasingly blasphemous. She noted that Trump’s behavior aligns with what she perceives as an "Antichrist spirit," particularly in light of his contentious relationship with the Catholic Church, especially under Pope Leo XIV, who has publicly criticized Trump's policies.

HuffPost

While Purkiss and others have labeled Trump as the Antichrist, there is a notable absence of direct responses from Trump’s supporters regarding the implications of such a label. Additionally, some commentators, like VandeHei, have refrained from using the term but have warned about the potential fallout from Trump's actions.

HuffPost

• “I’m just gonna say this, right? I am a person that was raised a Catholic — I did all the sacraments, I read the book, you know,” — Marina Purkiss, Pundit

HuffPost

• “How dare you? That is blasphemous. The picture is blasphemous, it’s a huge disrespect. That in itself is the breaking of a commandment,” — Marina Purkiss, Pundit

HuffPost

• “This guy, in my opinion, is the Antichrist.” — Marina Purkiss, Pundit

HuffPost

The controversy surrounding Trump's image and the subsequent labeling as the Antichrist highlights the ongoing tensions between his political persona and religious sentiments among various groups.

HuffPost