"There’s always a Joker," as Lady Gaga puts it, specifically in reference to herself. On a social media detox and none the wiser to my obscure references? Well, let me fill you in... Taking to Instagram, the singer-turned-actor shared a sneak preview video from her upcoming movie role as Harley Quinn and unlike her partner in crime's namesake, Gaga's shocking hair transformation had us anything but laughing 'n' joking (read: I'm picking my jaw up off of the floor).
Just short of an hour ago [September 25, 2024], the Haus Labs founder took to her IG grid with a video post acting in full character. As such, Gaga rocks her Joker: Folie à Deux makeover which features a short and shaggy bob haircut.
This look – topped with choppy layers and a fringe, may I add – couldn't be further from her signature platinum blonde locks.
She could walk past me on my weekly Tesco shop and I wouldn't bat an eyelid. Aka: unrecognisable!
Of course, this hairstyle comes hand in hand with Gaga's acting role, so, we have no doubt that it is, unfortunately, a wig. After all, it was only a few weeks ago that she was spotted out donning her peroxide-coloured chest-length tresses.
Alas, real or not, there's no denying that this oxblood red bob will inspire autumn 2024's hair trends. I didn't make the rules, folks...
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Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
