Bradley Cooper just pulled a Benjamin Button. The American Hustle star, 39, appeared to age in reverse when he ditched his usual scruff for a completely clean-shaven look in New York City on Wednesday, Nov. 5, two days before his Broadway debut in The Elephant Man.
The two-time Oscar nominee, who’s almost never without at least a little stubble on his oh-so-chiseled jaw, was rendered nearly unrecognizable by the change. With his baby-smooth chin, green cargo pants, and black backpack, he looked a good 10 years younger — if not more.
Prior to debuting his new hairless face, Cooper’s perpetual five o’clock shadow was perhaps his most constant accessory on the red carpet. He wore his scruff with pride, usually with an impeccably tailored suit or tux.
Earlier this year, he let it grow out while filming the upcoming movie American Sniper, based on the life and career of military vet Chris Kyle. He showed off the bearded look — and a beefy new frame — at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute Gala on May 5. (He’s since slimmed down again.)
Tell Us: Do you prefer Bradley Cooper clean-shaven, with a little scruff, or with a full beard?
