50 Years Later: Couple’s Makeovers Leave Them Almost Unrecognizable

Jo and Kevin Taylor have shared nearly five decades of love and laughter, a true testament to their deep connection. High school sweethearts, they first met on December 2, 1967, when Jo was just 14 and Kevin 16. Their bond was instant, built on easy conversation, shared humor, and a devotion that only grew stronger through the years. Kevin often says the secret to their lasting marriage is simple: Jo is his best friend.
Their love story blossomed into a large family, including five children, fourteen grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren. But while their relationship thrived, their fashion choices remained stuck in the past. Friends and relatives often teased them about their shaggy 70s-era biker looks and scraggly hair. When encouraged to apply for the Today Show’s “Ambush Makeover” Valentine’s Day special, the couple hesitated—never expecting they’d actually be chosen.
To their surprise, Jo and Kevin were selected. Stylists Louis Licari and Jill Martin were charmed by the couple’s warmth and genuine love for each other. They wanted to modernize Jo and Kevin’s appearance while still respecting their biker style. Jo had long wished Kevin would trim his beard, while Kevin knew how attached Jo was to her long hair, so the challenge was to strike a balance between fresh and familiar.
The stylists crafted a chic-yet-edgy makeover that blended modern fashion with touches of their biker identity. They were dressed in new, flattering outfits and given hairstyles that brought out their features without erasing their personality. Separated for the final reveal, the anticipation was electric—and when they finally saw each other, their reactions were priceless.
The transformation stunned everyone, but more importantly, it brought out a new confidence in Jo and Kevin. Their joy shone brighter than their new looks, proving that the makeover was more than a surface change. It was a celebration of their timeless love and a fresh chapter as they looked ahead to their 50th wedding anniversary.