Jason Momoa has surprised fans by shaving off his signature beard for the first time in six years ahead of filming Dune: Part Three, and he made it clear it was only for director Denis Villeneuve. The Aquaman and Dune star shared a video on social media showing himself buzzing off the iconic facial hair he’s been known for, and openly admitting he’s not a fan of the new clean-shaven look. “Goddammit, I hate it!” he groaned in the clip, adding with a grin, “Only for you, Denis.”
Momoa hasn’t shaved since at least 2019, when he prepared to shoot the first Dune film, and his facial hair has become part of his public image in the years since. In the video, he reflects on how long it’s been and why he’s finally doing it again now, signaling his commitment to returning as Duncan Idaho in Dune: Part Three.
The actor’s decision comes as anticipation builds for the next installment of the Dune franchise, which sees Momoa’s character come back despite his fate in the earlier films. In the original Frank Herbert novels, Idaho returns in a cloned form, a plot element that director Villeneuve is widely expected to explore in the new film, although details remain tightly held.
Momoa’s social post didn’t just show the shave itself — he also tied in his ongoing environmental advocacy. He used the opportunity to highlight Mananalu, the sustainable water company he founded that focuses on reducing single-use plastics, continuing a message he has championed publicly.
The clean-shaven reveal has drawn plenty of reaction from fans, many commenting on how different the star looks without his long beard. But for Momoa, it was a professional choice — a nod to his role, his director and the story ahead.
Production on Dune: Part Three is underway, with a release currently expected in late 2026. The film will bring back core cast members including Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, and also feature Momoa’s son, Nakoa-Wolf, in his debut role as part of the Atreides family.
In short, this haircut, rare as it is, marks a major moment for the actor and for fans of the Dune saga: Jason Momoa is officially switching gears and heading back to Arrakis, even if he’d rather keep his beard.
