The 2026 Golden Globes red carpet witnessed a dramatic style evolution from one of Hollywood's most recognisable leading men. Actor Glen Powell, nominated for his role in the Hulu series Chad Powers, arrived at the Beverly Hills ceremony sporting a look that left fans and fashion commentators deeply divided.
A Vision in Velvet and a New 'Do
Stepping out in a classic midnight blue velvet tuxedo with a bow tie, the 37-year-old star cut a figure of old Hollywood glamour. However, it was the changes above the collar that captured the spotlight. Departing from his signature short crop, Powell's hair appeared several inches longer, styled into a neat side part. Completing the transformed look was a pair of spectacles, a accessory rarely seen on the actor at major public events.
The style shift was immediately noted as a significant departure from the aesthetic fans associate with the Top Gun: Maverick star. Social media platforms ignited with commentary, ranging from baffled criticism to enthusiastic approval.
Social Media Erupts with Mixed Reviews
Online reaction to Powell's new hairstyle was swift and polarised. One user bluntly declared, 'Hair stylist did him dirty,' while another lamented, 'He's so hot but the hair...' Criticism continued with posts like, 'he can go home and come back later to try again bc this was not it,' and 'I need Glen Powell to fire whoever dyed his hair like this.'
Not all feedback was negative, however. Some fans celebrated the change, with one exclaiming, 'blonde glen powell nation we are so f**king back.' Another supporter simply stated, 'Not gonna lie, he looks fine as hell.' The debate even took a humorous turn when one fan compared a candid red carpet photo of Powell to a legendary Big Foot sighting, tweeting: 'my friend sent me a picture of glen powell she caught in the wild, my own personal big foot.'
The Reason Behind the Transformation
According to sources and fan speculation, the longer locks are not merely a personal style choice. The new hairstyle is believed to be for his ongoing work on the second season of 'Chad Powers', which he is currently filming. Powell is nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy for his role in the popular series.
Beyond his professional projects, Powell's personal life has also garnered attention. Reports from UsWeekly indicate he has been dating Landman actress Michelle Randolph for approximately two months, since October 2025. The pair are said to be 'having fun,' though Powell prefers to keep the relationship low-profile, with no plans for a joint red carpet appearance in the immediate future.
The 2026 ceremony, hosted for the second consecutive year by comedian Nikki Glaser, saw 'One Battle After Another' lead the film nominations with an impressive nine nods. In television, Netflix's 'Adolescence' continued its awards season success, securing five nominations including one for its young star, Owen Cooper.