Achievement Beard v Criminal Beard

The New Yorker wrote a great piece on the “achievement beard” last fall and pointed out David Letterman as the perfect example. It seemed popular amongst recently retired (or changing jobs) talk show host comedians, like Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart.

Stephen Colbert with “Achievement Beard” (source)

Jon Stewart with “Achievement Beard” (source)

Even Eddie Van Halen joined the fun, who looked like the distinguished elder statesman of rock ’n’ roll, when he was honored by the Smithsonian Institution early last year.

Eddie Van Halen being honored by the Smithsonian Institution (source)

But the gray beard has taken a turn as of late to adorn the faces of harden criminals… well at least those in Hollywood movies. Kevin Costner’s latest movie “Criminal” has him looking pretty tough with a gray beard and a high and tight haircut.

Then there is “Blood Father” with Mel Gibson, who has a full gray beard and is also a hardened criminal.

Mel Gibson in “Blood Father” (source)

Hmmm, I wonder if there are any other Oscar winning actor/directors who are going to join the fun?

Clint Eastwood? But he has always had a beard off and on over the years, so nothing new.

Ben Affleck? I think he may need more gray hair to join the club.

But in the end, I think it’s going to be hard to top Jack Nicholson with his “criminal beard” in “The Departed”.

Leonardo DiCaprio and Jack Nicholson in “The Departed” (2006)