From Days in the Valley to Atomic Blonde, here are the renowned actress’ top transformation moments.
Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Charlize Theron catapulted to Hollywood stardom through high-profile roles in a bevy of memorable blockbuster films. Known for her top-notch acting skills and ability to take on the most challenging roles, Theron began her career in the mid-1990s. After securing her first speaking role in 2 Days in the Valley, Theron became a forever mainstay on the big screen. Since her start, Theron has taken on a series of challenging roles that have required her to shapeshift—from striking villainess to housewife and everything in between. Whether it be playing an ice-cold leader in Prometheus or shifting styles in Snow White and the Huntsman, Theron has undoubtedly cemented herself as a leading actress in Hollywood. In honor of Theron’s 48th birthday, L’OFFICIEL rounds up the actress’ most memorable movie transformations.
2 Days in the Valley (1996)
Photo via Getty Images.
Based on the story of a murder-for-hire scheme, 2 Days in the Valley was Theron’s first big speaking role. The thrilling movie saw Theron play the role of bombshell Helga Svelgen, who was the girlfriend of Dosmo Pizzo. The actress wore seductive outfits including lingerie, corsetry, and oh-so ’90s heels.
Celebrity (1998)
Photos via Getty Images and IMDb.
Celebrity follows the tumultuous and glamorous life of Lee Simon, an entertainment writer based in New York City. Throughout the classic film, Theron plays a leggy supermodel who interviews for a position with Simon. Whether it be long blonde locks or short pixie cuts, Theron certainly nailed the role.
Head in the Clouds (2004)
Photo via IMDb.
Starring Guy Malyon, Penelope Cruz, and Theron, Head in the Clouds is a romantic drama set in the picturesque scenery of 1930s Paris. The South African actress stuns in a variety of flapper dresses, curled hair, and glamorous accessories.
Aeon Flux (2005)
Photo via IMDb.
Theron’s short, dark hair flourishes throughout the sci-fi action film—a stark departure from her usual blonde locks. The movie follows Theron’s character as she navigates an apocalyptic world of action and mystery, made complete with sleek accessories and forward-thinking ready-to-wear.
The Road (2009)
Photo via IMDb.
In The Road, Theron returns to her natural blonde hair while playing the wife of Viggo Mortensen in a series of flashbacks. Though Theron does not play a major role in the film, it marks an important transition in her transformative aesthetic as an actress.
Young Adult (2011)
Photos via IMDb.
Abandoning the unbridled glamour of The Road and Head in the Clouds, in Young Adult, Theron plays Mavis Gray, a teen writer returning to her hometown to find love and visit her favorite haunts. Theron’s Hello Kitty t-shirts and oversized jackets signify her character’s desire to return to her teenage years.
Prometheus (2012)
Photo via IMDb.
Based on a team of explorers discovering the darkest parts of the universe, Prometheus is a must-watch sci-fi classic. Playing the role of Meredith Vickers, Theron dons a series of high-tech looks that are plucked out of an alternate universe.
Snow White and The Huntsman (2012)
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Snow White and The Huntsman Trailer
With a star-studded cast including Kristen Stewart and Chris Hemsworth, Snow White and The Huntsman became one of the most hotly anticipated films of 2012. Tasked with portraying the evil Queen Raveena, Theron sported a variety of elaborate gowns, accessories, and hair that coincided with the icy demeanor of her character.
Atomic Blonde (2017)
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Atomic Blonde Trailer
Playing the blonde bombshell Lorraine Broughton, Theron thrived throughout the thriller Atomic Blonde. While on a mission to uncover a list of double agents after the collapse of the Berlin Wall, Theron sports a bevy of sexy separates and rocks her now-iconic blonde hair.
Bombshell (2019)
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Bombshell Trailer
In order to nail the role of journalist and reporter Megyn Kelly, Theron underwent a major transformation that included a stark haircut and lots of time in the makeup chair. Theron’s resemblance to Kelly was uncanny and helped Bombshell win an Oscar Award in 2019.