Pedro Pascal has revealed he was so unhappy with his clean-shaven appearance in “Wonder Woman 1984” that he has avoided going without facial hair for acting roles ever since.
The actor made the comments during a LADbible video series with his “Fantastic Four” co-star Vanessa Kirby, where they debated whether mustaches or beards are more attractive. Pascal played the villainous Maxwell Lord in the 2020 DC superhero sequel, which required him to shave off his trademark facial hair.
“I was so appalled by the way I look in ‘Wonder Woman 1984.’ I loved the movie, but I was so appalled by the way that I looked that I never have gone back unless it were completely necessary,” Pascal said. He added that he would only consider shaving again if absolutely required by a role.
The actor explained that while he doesn’t grow particularly impressive facial hair, going completely clean-shaven makes him look “very awful.” For his current role as Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic in Marvel’s “Fantastic Four,” Pascal was able to keep his signature mustache, though this choice has drawn criticism from some comic book fans who prefer the character’s traditional clean-shaven look.
Pascal acknowledged the fan backlash he has faced since being cast in the Marvel role, saying he constantly heard complaints that “He’s too old. He’s not right. He needs to shave.” The actor admitted he is “more aware of disgruntlement around my casting than anything I’ve ever done.”
Despite the criticism, Pascal will continue as Reed Richards in next year’s “Avengers: Doomsday.” His Maxwell Lord role in “Wonder Woman 1984” was a one-time appearance in the previous DC Universe.
Marvel’s “Fantastic Four” opens in theaters July 25.
