These photos of kids freaked out by Santa, either crying or just all-around sad, are proof that the Christmas icon isn’t as beloved as one might imagine.

Why so sad, guys? Many line up for the long haul to meet Santa, only to have their little one completely scared to death by the stranger in the red suit.

Of course, it’s all captured in these bad Santa photos, and while a lot of the expressions are hilarious, some of the kids’ reactions are beyond terrified.

I can’t say I blame the kids, really. Some of these mall Santas would make a grown man cry.

For more kid photo fail fun, check out these!

  “DEAR SANTA, I wish you thick wallet and slim body. Please, do NOT mixed them up as you did the last New Year!”