George Clooney is currently riding a new wave of success, debuting on Broadway in Good Night, and Good Luck, a stage adaptation of the 2005 film he co-wrote, directed, and starred in. While his Broadway debut is making headlines, so is a striking transformation in his appearance—his departure from his signature silver fox look has stunned fans and left many reflecting on his past hair evolution.
For his role as the younger Edward R. Murrow in the play, Clooney dyed his hair brown, instantly turning heads with his decision to step away from his iconic gray hair. This new, darker style is reminiscent of the actor’s early career days when he sported jet-black hair for his first notable TV and film roles.
Clooney’s rise to fame began in the 1980s when he was cast as George Burnett on The Facts of Life sitcom. His appearance on the show introduced him to audiences, complete with thick, cascading black mullet hair that contrasted with the rest of the cast’s styles. Though his character was eventually written out as the show declined, Clooney’s early charm was unmistakable.
It was his role as Dr. Doug Ross on ER (1994-1999) that truly launched him to stardom. During this time, Clooney’s look evolved from his long, flowing locks to a cropped hairstyle that showcased his deep brown, almost black hair. His transition into Hollywood included iconic films like From Dusk Till Dawn (1996) and Out of Sight (1998), cementing his status as a suave leading man.
However, one of the most unforgettable looks of Clooney’s career was his brief platinum blonde phase in 1998, which stood in stark contrast to his usual dark locks. Seen here at the premiere of Hello Again, his bleach blonde hair was part of a larger ’90s trend that featured frosted tips and bold highlights, making it one of the most daring style choices of his career. Though there are few photos documenting this phase, the platinum blonde look remains a memorable moment in Clooney’s ever-evolving hairstyle journey.
By the early 2000s, Clooney settled into his trademark silver fox appearance, embracing the natural aging process and cementing his distinguished look that paired perfectly with his mature roles in films like O Brother, Where Art Thou? and Syriana. His silver locks became as iconic as his performances, symbolizing the actor’s effortless style and sophistication.
Now, with his return to Broadway and a return to brown hair, George Clooney’s evolving look continues to capture the attention of fans, reflecting both his ever-changing career and his unmistakable style.
