Aaron Taylor-Johnson Debuts Rugged Beard at 2025 Venice Film Festival

At the 2025 Venice International Film Festival, Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson surprised fans with a noticeably slimmer physique while promoting his new biographical drama, The Smashing Machine, marking a significant departure from his typical roles as he embraces a more intense and raw acting challenge. Meanwhile, Aaron Taylor-Johnson also made headlines at the festival with a dramatic transformation, sporting a bushy beard, long curly hair, and a rugged look that has sparked speculation about upcoming roles, including the horror film 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple and a reunion with director Robert Eggers for Werwulf. Taylor-Johnson's new appearance has drawn attention and humorous reactions online, with some fans suggesting it could influence his chances of becoming the next James Bond. The actor has expressed enjoyment in growing out his hair and beard for roles, appreciating the freedom and nonconformity it represents, with this look evolving over several months leading up to the festival. Both actors are using the festival to showcase their evolving careers and willingness to take on diverse and challenging roles beyond their established images.