Renée Zellweger, the beloved actress known for her iconic portrayal of Bridget Jones, has sparked a flurry of online reactions after appearing on the cover of British Vogue for its February 2025 issue. The 55-year-old actress, who was once celebrated for her signature look, stunned fans with a new appearance that many described as “unrecognizable.” Sporting a short pixie cut and a chic, minimalistic style, Zellweger’s photos have prompted mixed responses from her followers, some of whom struggled to recognize her.

The actress was on hand to promote her upcoming film, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, and during her British Vogue interview, she reflected on the character she has come to embody so well. “I love her,” Zellweger said of Bridget, who first captured audiences’ hearts in 2001. However, the focus quickly shifted to her transformation, with several fans expressing shock at how different she appeared. One Instagram user remarked, “She had such an attractive, cute, unique look before – she looks like a different person now. Hard to believe that is even her!”

The debate over Zellweger’s appearance has sparked comments about plastic surgery, Botox, and fillers. Some online critics questioned the authenticity of her new look, accusing her of altering her facial features too drastically. “She doesn’t even look like the same person,” one fan commented, while another noted, “It’s not Photoshop. It’s plastic surgery, Botox, and filler.” This intense scrutiny reflects a broader conversation about celebrity beauty standards and the pressures of maintaining a youthful appearance in Hollywood.

Despite the backlash, Zellweger’s transformation has also received praise from others, who found her new pixie cut stylish and fresh. Some even expressed excitement about her upcoming film, saying, “Wow, she looks so different with her pixie cut. Can’t wait for Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy.” Zellweger’s drastic change has definitely caught attention, but it hasn’t overshadowed her professional accomplishments. Fans are eager to see her reprise the role that made her a household name nearly 25 years ago.

In her Vogue interview, Zellweger opened up about her decision to step away from acting between 2010 and 2016, explaining that she needed a break from the industry to focus on her personal growth. She spent her time exploring new interests, such as writing music and studying international law, as well as spending quality time with family and rescue dogs. Zellweger emphasized how important it was for her to get healthy and find balance, something that might have also contributed to the rejuvenated look she’s now showcasing.