Taking to Twitter, the 56-year-old said: “Do you think the queue would be so long if people knew that the Queen isn’t in that coffin? Or do they know and it’s just symbolic?”
Some of Douglas’ followers were left furious over the comment and asked him not to “destroy” the experience for mourners with his “scepticism”.
The TV star insisted it was a “genuine question”, as he worried about the security risk involved.
One person replied: “Douglas, please stopping spreading lies and conspiracy theories like this. You’re better than this.”
Another said: “Whether she is in there or not, this us a social necessity for every person there to show their respect. Please don’t destroy this experience for them with scepticism.”
“Another shocking tweet – you are having a nightmare recently,” penned another.
After being questioned by his followers about if Her Majesty’s body was in the coffin, Douglas said: “I don’t know obviously, but I can’t imagine she would be purely on the grounds of security if nothing else.”
The Tweet has racked up thousands of comments since it was posted on Friday, with some branding it “horrible” and “offensive”. Meanwhile, others have supported the actor and said they too don’t think the late monarch’s body is actually in the coffin either.
Henshall has since insisted it was a “genuine question” and that he was concerned about the security risk involved.
Responding to one critic’s claim that it was a “nasty” Tweet, Henshall wrote: “It’s not nasty or vile, and I’m not undermining anyone. I simply asked a question. Jesus. Enjoy your retirement.”
Mourners have spent up to 14 hours queueing to see the Queen’s lying-in-state at Westminster Hall, including the likes of David Beckham and Susanna Reid.
Doors will finally close to the public at 5.30am on Monday, ahead of the Queen’s funeral.
