Actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson made a striking appearance at the 2025 Venice International Film Festival on August 30, showcasing his much-discussed rugged beard debut. The 35-year-old actor attended the red carpet premiere of the film Frankenstein, wearing a sharp white tuxedo jacket paired with black trousers and a matching bowtie, while sporting tight curly hair and a full scruffy beard and mustache.
Gradual Transformation Over Summer
Taylor-Johnson has been steadily growing his hair and facial hair throughout the summer months. Earlier in June, he appeared at Paris Fashion Week with a shorter hairstyle and a goatee, indicating the beginning stages of his new beard style. Fans noted the significant change in his appearance at Venice, where his fuller beard made him nearly unrecognizable.
History of Experimenting with Facial Hair
The actor has openly embraced different facial hair styles over the years, often growing them out for roles. In a 2015 interview with The Guardian, Aaron remarked on beard culture among young men, describing the impressive growth and camaraderie it inspired:
“I’ve seen some pretty impressive beards from some young lads. Guys saying to one another: ‘Dude, I saw you two weeks ago, what the f***? That’s some serious growth you’ve got going on there. F***in’ hell!”
—Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Actor
He also clarified his reasons for growing facial hair were not simply trends:
“I got into beards right in the middle of the hipster boom. But that’s not why I’m doing this.”
—Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Actor
Earlier in 2025, it took him nearly three months to grow a beard for his role in 28 Years Later, which premiered the same year, showing his commitment to adapting his look for roles.
Perspectives on Beard Growth and Personal Expression
Speaking to Entertainment Tonight in December 2024, Taylor-Johnson discussed how his beard alters his appearance and emotional state:
“It grows quite quickly, but it definitely changes the way I look,”
—Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Actor
“I’m happy hiding behind a big bushy beard. It’s when it comes off that I feel a little vulnerable [and] a little exposed.”
—Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Actor
Regarding his grooming routine, Aaron shared with Harper’s Bazaar UK in February 2024 that he maintains a simple approach, primarily using hair oil to care for his curls:
“I enjoy growing out my hair. It feels like I’m not conforming,”
—Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Actor
“I like to be outside the box, there’s a little bit of fluidity and freedom to it.”
—Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Actor
Implications of the New Style on Public Image
Aaron Taylor-Johnson’s rugged beard debut marks a notable shift in his public image, emphasizing a more intense and mature look. As he continues to experiment with his appearance for both professional and personal reasons, this style may influence his future roles and how audiences perceive him in the evolving film landscape. The bold beard adds a new dimension to his presence at high-profile events like the Venice International Film Festival, hinting at continued transformation ahead.
