The Journey to Becoming a Blonde Carolyn Bessette Kennedy: Sarah Pidgeon Shares Her Experience
Sarah Pidgeon Transforms Hair for Role as Carolyn Bessette Kennedy
Actress Sarah Pidgeon has shared insights into her dramatic hair transformation for the upcoming project "Love Story." In a recent Vogue Beauty Secrets video, the 29-year-old revealed that it took over 20 hours across two days to convert her naturally dark brown hair into the iconic blonde reminiscent of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy.
“I went in to audition for Carolyn with long, dark brown hair and have since undergone the whole process to go blond,” Pidgeon explained. She highlighted the careful approach required by her team, noting that her psoriasis complicates the coloring process. “We have to be really careful because I have psoriasis, and obviously it’s quite an intense treatment to lighten such dark hair,” she added.
The lengthy transformation not only altered Pidgeon’s appearance but also served as a significant psychological step into the character. “Spending time sitting in the chair and watching this transformation helped me leave behind a bit of Sarah,” Pidgeon remarked. She further noted that her hair evolves throughout the FX series, mirroring Bessette Kennedy’s own style journey.
Visually, her hair starts out more curled and dimensional, transitioning to a straighter, blonder style as the story progresses. "In the beginning, it’s much curlier, and there’s more dimensionality, maybe some more low lights. Then throughout the show, it gets much blonder, much straighter,” she explained.
Pidgeon’s meticulous hair care involves additional precautions due to her scalp condition, exacerbated by the dyeing process and diet. “I have yet to have the self-control to get rid of gluten, or dairy, or sweets,” she admitted.
Despite the challenges, Pidgeon expressed intent to maintain her blonde hair for the foreseeable future. The dedication to replicating Bessette Kennedy’s signature look is accompanied by insight from Brad Johns, Bessette’s real-life colorist. Johns emphasized the importance of her iconic buttery blonde shade, which he mastered with a technique he describes as “chunking.”
As Pidgeon continues her journey portraying this notable figure, she seems poised for a compelling performance, bolstered by her significant transformation and commitment.
