Social media star Spanian has faced online ridicule after the grand opening of his new kebab shop in Sydney, with fans focusing criticism on a wall mural they say makes him look 'unrecognisable'.
Fan scrutiny at Newtown launch
The 37-year-old influencer, whose real name is Anthony Lees, shared footage from the official opening of Spanian's Kebabs on Newtown's King Street last Saturday. The video showed him cutting a ribbon and posing with supporters at the sleek takeaway venue.
However, attention quickly shifted to painted artwork depicting Spanian on the shop's interior wall. Followers on platform X (formerly Twitter) were swift to comment, with many suggesting the portrait poorly represented him and awkwardly highlighted his recent nose job and dental veneers.
Mixed reactions to the new venture
'Nice... but whoever did that mural did old Spanyos dirty,' wrote one observer online. Another asked directly: 'Who is that in the painting?' while a different user bluntly stated: 'Got a nose job bro.' Some even offered unsolicited design advice for alternative artwork.
Despite the mural controversy, the new eatery received praise from other customers. One fan commended the 'perfect' food and service, specifically highlighting the 'off the chart' seasoning on the chips. Another simply stated: 'The food is amazing.'
From eshay to entrepreneur
Spanian was once synonymous with the 'eshay' subculture in Sydney – a working-class youth movement known for its distinctive style and attitude. Having served more than 12 years in prison for offences including armed robbery and drug dealing, he rebranded himself after his 2017 release.
He found fame and fortune with his YouTube series 'Into the Hood', where he visited high-crime areas globally, marketing himself as a reformed ex-criminal. This influencer success has led some long-time followers to claim he has changed dramatically.
'He's had the nose done, the veneers, and now he's dating someone who looks [so much] younger,' commented one fan on TikTok, reflecting a sentiment found across social media. Others argued he had 'let the fame and money go to his head'.
Personal life in the spotlight
The business launch comes during a period of significant personal change for Spanian. He recently ended his two-year marriage to Angela McColl just months after she gave birth to their son. He is now in a relationship with 22-year-old Ava Jean Walker.
While the mural at his kebab shop has drawn mockery, it underscores Spanian's ongoing transformation from a figure of gritty authenticity to a legitimate businessman and entertainer – a journey that continues to polarise his audience.
