Brie Larson Debuts Buzz Cut for West End’s ‘Elektra’ Revival

LONDON, England — Academy Award-winning actress Brie Larson has unveiled a dramatic new look as she prepares for her West End debut in the revival of Sophocles‘ Elektra. The 35-year-old star shared a behind-the-scenes video on Friday, Jan. 31, showcasing her buzz cut and offering a glimpse into the rigorous rehearsal process for the production, which opens at London’s Duke of York’s Theatre on Feb. 5.

In the makeup-free clip, filmed from her theater dressing room, Larson detailed the challenges and excitement of bringing the ancient Greek tragedy to life. The production, directed by Daniel Fish, marks the first major revival of Elektra in over a decade. The play follows a woman haunted by her father’s assassination and consumed by a thirst for vengeance.

Larson’s transformation for the role began in November 2024, when she debuted a pixie cut on Instagram, a stark departure from her signature long, wavy blonde hair. The actress described the process of preparing for Elektra as “the most special and energizing time,” emphasizing the collaborative effort of the cast and creative team.

“Made this video to give a taste of what the last few months have been for me as we prepare for our West End debut,” Larson wrote on Instagram. “I had never been in such a rigorous rehearsal process, and the play we created is wholly unique. Working with this incredible team of cast and creatives has changed my life!”

The production features a minimalist approach, with an empty theater setting and a revolving stage. Larson explained that this stripped-back style allows the performances to take center stage. “Sometimes when something is stripped back, it seems like there’s less thought, but actually, it means that there has to be a lot more thought put into it,” she said.

Larson also highlighted the show’s music as a defining element, describing it as a story about “challenging our perceptions.” The cast includes Marième Diouf, Greg Hicks, and Patrick Vaill, among others. The actress expressed how empowering it has been to portray a character who refuses to let go of her pain and demands to be heard.

“It’s been very empowering to explore what it means to stand on a stage and say to a group of 650 people every night, ‘Listen to me, what I have to say is worth hearing, even if it makes you uncomfortable,'” Larson said.

Elektra had a pre-run of shows at the Theatre Royal Brighton from Jan. 13-18 before moving to the Duke of York’s Theatre. Previews began on Jan. 24, with the official opening night set for Feb. 5. The production will run in London until April 12.