Why Gary Oldman Chose to Grow Out His Own Hair Rather Than Wear a Wig for “Slow Horses” (Exclusive)

**Gary Oldman Embraces Long Hair for His Role in ‘Slow Horses’**

Gary Oldman, the acclaimed actor known for his dedication to roles, has made an intriguing choice for his portrayal of Jackson Lamb in the Apple TV series ‘Slow Horses’. In an interview with PEOPLE, the 68-year-old Oscar winner revealed the reasoning behind his decision to forego a wig and grow his own hair for the character, which he has been embodying since 2022.

Oldman’s commitment to authenticity is evident in his portrayal of the rough-around-the-edges leader of a group of MI5 misfits. Rather than opting for a wig, which is a common choice for many actors, he decided to maintain a longer hairstyle that he feels better represents Jackson Lamb, a character described in Mick Herron’s Slough House book series. “I made a decision going in that [I would keep my hair long],” Oldman explained. “It touches on it in the book that he has hair that is over the collar.”

His dedication to this character extends beyond his appearance. Oldman reflected on the practical benefits of his choice. Maintaining his own hair allows him to simplify the makeup process for the role. “I wanted to be able to get into a makeup chair, put a bit of grease in my hair, put some broken veins on my nose, and, you know, I’m set,” he shared, contrasting this quick regimen with what could often take hours with a wig.

While he acknowledges the craftsmanship that goes into creating wigs, as evidenced by his co-star Saskia Reeves sporting an impressive one, Oldman prefers the natural look. “I just look at it as: dead hair is dead hair,” he remarked, adding that using a wig would require an extensive amount of product and constant adjustments. Choosing to wear his own hair, he feels, allows him a sense of freedom and spontaneity in his portrayal.

In a light-hearted moment, Oldman reassured fans that despite the character’s seemingly carefree attitude towards grooming, he does maintain some personal hygiene: “I mean, I did shower this morning. I did wash my hair,” he joked, highlighting the contrast between his life and the character’s dishevelled persona.

Despite the connections to Lamb’s reckless lifestyle, Oldman insists there are few parallels between himself and the fictional character. “I try and watch what I eat. I was a smoker,” he disclosed, adding that it is Lamb’s flaws that make him a compelling figure. “I think that’s why we like him, isn’t it? Because we’re told that we can’t do this, we have to eat this, we can’t drink, we can’t smoke, and he does all those things. He’s a junk food addict too.”

As for the series itself, the sixth season of ‘Slow Horses’ presents a thrilling narrative, with Lamb and his team embroiled in a perilous game of retaliation and revenge instigated by their superior, Diana Taverner. Featuring a star-studded cast including Kristin Scott Thomas and Jack Lowden, the series continues to captivate audiences with its twists and turns. The show has garnered a devoted following, and new episodes are released weekly on Apple TV until October 21.

Oldman’s decision to forgo a wig might seem trivial, but it underscores his commitment to immersing himself in a role that has resonated with both him and viewers alike. As the series progresses, fans eagerly await to see how his character navigates the intricacies of espionage while remaining true to his rough-hewn charm.

With his long hair and unkempt appearance now synonymous with Jackson Lamb, Gary Oldman reaffirms that a character’s authenticity often lies in the choices an actor makes. His approach serves as a reminder of the lengths to which artists will go to ensure their performances resonate with the audience on a deeper level.