Jason Momoa has officially shed his iconic beard for the first time in six years, marking a significant moment as he prepares to reprise his role as Duncan Idaho in the highly anticipated "Dune: Part Three." The actor, known for his rugged look, shared a candid video on social media showcasing the transformation, expressing mixed feelings about the new clean-shaven appearance.
In the video, Momoa addressed the acclaimed director Denis Villeneuve, saying, "Only for you, Denis," highlighting the special bond and respect he holds for the filmmaker behind the "Dune" saga. Moments after clipping off his facial hair, Momoa glanced at his reflection and exclaimed with a laugh, "Goddamnit, I hate it!" This reaction underscores how much the beard had become a part of his identity over the years.
Momoa's last shave was for the original "Dune" film released in 2021, where he portrayed Duncan Idaho, the loyal swordmaster of House Atreides and mentor to Timothée Chalamet's Paul Atreides. Despite his character's sacrifice at the end of the first film to ensure the safety of Paul and his mother Jessica, Momoa was absent from the 2024 sequel, "Dune: Part Two." However, fans were thrilled when it was confirmed that he would return for the third installment, slated to hit theaters on December 18, 2026.
The third film draws inspiration from Frank Herbert's 1969 novel "Dune Messiah," which explores the complex aftermath of Paul's rise as Emperor Muad'Dib and the Fremen-led jihad he commands. While the original story sees Duncan Idaho resurrected as a clone, it remains to be seen how closely Villeneuve’s adaptation will follow this plotline.
Adding to the excitement, Momoa's son, Nakoa-Wolf Momoa, has been cast in "Dune: Part Three" alongside Ida Brooke, who will portray Leto II and Ghanima, the twin children of Paul Atreides and Chani (Zendaya). Jason Momoa shared his pride and amusement regarding his son's involvement, telling Extra, "A rude awakening is what he’s in for. He’s into the workforce for the first time. It’s going to be good. He did it on his own. I don’t want to help him, and he’s done it all on his own, and good for him... You want your children to be better than you, and I really, actually believe he is." He further reflected on the difference in their career starts, saying, "I couldn’t do what he’s doing at his age. There’s no way I could sit in a room with Denis Villeneuve and hold my own. I was on Baywatch at 19. He’s 16 and holding shit down with Denis Villeneuve." This statement not only highlights the young actor's early maturity and professionalism but also the legacy Momoa hopes his son will surpass.
Joining the cast is also Robert Pattinson, who was reported by Deadline in April 2025 to take on the villainous role of Scytale, adding another layer of intrigue to the film’s ensemble.
Director Denis Villeneuve has made it clear that "Dune: Part Three" will be his final entry in the saga. In 2024, he described the first two films as a "diptych," a pair of movies that together adapt the first "Dune" novel. He explained that the third film would have its own distinct identity, separate from a traditional trilogy, and expressed his desire to explore new projects afterward.
Aside from his work on "Dune," 45-year-old Momoa has had a busy year. Following the success of "A Minecraft Movie," he concluded his run in the DC Extended Universe with 2023’s "Aquaman and the Last Kingdom." He is set to appear as Lobo in the upcoming DCU film "Supergirl," a role that could potentially lead to a spinoff series, fulfilling a long-held dream of his. Additionally, Momoa is starring in the historical drama series "Chief of War," which premieres on Apple TV+ on August 1, 2025, and will feature in the buddy cop film "The Wrecking Crew" alongside Dave Bautista.
Interestingly, Momoa's beard shave was more than just a role preparation; it symbolized the kickoff of his sustainability mission tied to his water company, Mananalu, powered by Boomerang. In the shaving video, he took a moment to inform his fans about the company's efforts to make positive environmental changes.
The public response to Momoa’s transformation has been warm and supportive, including affectionate reactions from his girlfriend, Adria Arjona. Fans are eagerly awaiting his return to the "Dune" universe, curious to see how the character of Duncan Idaho will evolve and how the story of House Atreides will continue to unfold under Villeneuve’s visionary direction.
As "Dune: Part Three" gears up for its December 2026 release, the combination of returning stars, fresh faces, and a director ready to conclude his epic adaptation promises a cinematic experience that will captivate audiences once again. Momoa’s shave, though met with humorous regret, marks the beginning of this new chapter in the saga and his own career.
