Halloween in Sydney took a dark turn this year when a young man’s choice of costume sparked widespread anger online.
Instead of a typical spooky or humorous outfit, the man opted to dress as the late US conservative figure Charlie Kirk, complete with fake blood and a ‘Freedom’ T-shirt eerily resembling the one Kirk wore when he was tragically killed.
The Costume That Shocked the Public
Photos of the young man at a local gelato shop quickly circulated on social media.
He wore a plain white shirt smeared with dark red dye and had scrawled the word ‘Freedom’ across the front.
The resemblance to Kirk’s final appearance was striking—and deeply unsettling for many Australians.
Reaction online was swift and harsh. “It’s unfortunate that this is going to be one of the more popular costumes this year,” one commenter wrote.
Another added, “I hope he gets a nice talking to from somebody for such an uncouth display.” And a third simply said, “Disgusting.”
Remembering Charlie Kirk
Charlie Kirk was fatally shot on September 10 while speaking to students at Utah Valley University.
The assailant, Tyler Robinson, 22, has been charged with his murder.
Kirk’s death shocked the political and campus activism community.
Kirk was best known for founding Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization that became a major force on college campuses, hosting large conferences and fostering political engagement among young conservatives across the United States.
Legacy and Honors
Following his death, Kirk’s widow, Erika, stepped into his role as CEO of Turning Point USA and vowed to continue his work.
She recently joined former President Donald Trump at the White House to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom on her late husband’s behalf.
Trump also delivered a moving eulogy at Kirk’s memorial service, offering support to Erika during her grief.
A Costume Controversy That Won’t Be Forgotten
The Halloween costume has reignited conversations about taste, sensitivity, and the boundaries of humor.
For many, the Sydney man’s choice crossed a line, turning what is normally a night of fun into a moment of public outrage.