Country icon Reba McEntire recently faced backlash over her latest hairdo, which sparked strong reactions from her followers. However, this transformative hairstyle is not the first instance the star has been seen rocking different hair.
In a recent swirl of online chatter, Reba McEntire has found herself at the center of social media contestation over her hairstyle. McEntire—known for her fiery red curls and larger-than-life stage presence—took a bold step away from her signature look and chose to rock a straighter hairstyle that has sparked a wave of criticism from the public.
The transformation was revealed in a playful Instagram video where McEntire humorously snooped around the dressing room of "The Voice" judges Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney—better known as the pop duo Dan + Shay— during the show's 25th season. Intended to showcase McEntire's comedic side, the video instead drew attention to her new hairdo.
Many were quick to voice their opinions, with comments ranging from "Her hair looks terrible. Makes her look old," to "Not loving the hairstyle. Too flat on your head like a helmet." Critics did not hold back, with someone urging, “Girl, this hairstyle is not you. Go back to the old Reba with fluffy hair. Much more attractive on you.”
Others who made it clear that they love and admire McEntire also shared their disapproval of the new look, expressing, “Love ya but this flat hair has to go,” and “You are beautiful but the haircut [is] not you.”
Although from the comments it's clear that people were taken aback by McEntire's straight locks, this is not the first time she has experimented with her hair.
In a TikTok video the artist shared in September of last year, she rocked the same straight hairstyle that is now under scrutiny while celebrating the success of her song "Fancy" reaching 100 million streams on Spotify. Additionally, in 2020, McEntire ventured even further from her traditional look, posting a picture with a very short and gelled-back hairdo.
Traditionally, McEntire has been celebrated for her curly, bouncy, and voluminous hair, a trademark of her vibrant persona both on and off stage. Yet, her recent choices reveal another side of McEntire that is unafraid of change and experimentation.
Reflecting on her iconic hair in a past interview she did in 2015, McEntire divulged, "I can’t get [my stylist] Brett Freedman to get it that high anymore! My good friend Shane Tarleton is always saying, ‘Get that big hair out.’" She also spoke about her past use of wigs for roles like "Annie Get Your Gun" and during a certain tour, and highlighted the unwavering pride she has for her red hair, which she inherited from her mother.
Despite the disapproving reactions to her latest hairstyle, Reba McEntire's journey through various looks underscores her versatility and fearless approach to self-expression. While fans may prefer the "old Reba" with her fluffy, vibrant curls, McEntire's willingness to experiment speaks volumes about her dynamic character.
