Fans of Hugh Jackman have been left stunned by the actor's completely transformed appearance in the first trailer for his upcoming film, 'The Death of Robin Hood'.
A Grizzled and Unrecognisable Outlaw
The 57-year-old Australian star, best known for his iconic role as Wolverine, is almost hidden beneath a massive grey beard and long silver hair in the preview for the A24 production. This stark departure from his usual clean-cut image presents a rugged, battle-worn version of the legendary outlaw.
The trailer, released in early January 2026, introduces a dark and gritty reinterpretation of the folklore hero. Directed by Michael Sarnoski (Pig, A Quiet Place: Day One), the film subverts the typical heroic narrative. This Robin Hood is portrayed as a 'murderous brigand' grappling with the weight of his violent past, a far cry from the noble thief of popular culture.
A Dark Reimagining of a Classic Legend
The plot follows Robin Hood as a 'battle-worn loner' who is gravely injured and finds himself in the care of a mysterious woman, played by Jodie Comer. She offers him a chance at salvation. The synopsis confirms the film will explore his past 'life of crime and murder'.
In the trailer, Jackman's character sombrely states, 'I've killed so many that I've lost count…it is a curse.' The footage hints at brutal, visceral fight scenes, with director Sarnoski describing the combat as akin to a war movie, where people 'in the mud try to crack each other's heads open with a shovel.'
The impressive supporting cast includes Bill Skarsgård as a version of Little John, alongside Murray Bartlett and Noah Jupe. Jodie Comer's character is confirmed not to be Maid Marian, but someone who introduces Robin Hood to 'another side of life'.
Fan Reaction and Creative Vision
Social media reaction to the trailer has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans praising the bold new direction. One YouTube user, EstablishedGeek, commented, 'Book me for this one! Jackman looks amazing.' Another user on X humorously referenced Jackman's role in The Greatest Showman, writing, 'P.T Barnum’s been looking different these days.'
Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, Hugh Jackman expressed his admiration for Sarnoski's script, highlighting its examination of power. 'What I love so much about Mike’s vision... is that the script delivered power, and it examines how power can be used for good or bad,' he said. 'Robin Hood is a real man in our story. With all the scars, the pain, the regret and, yes, the love.'
Director Michael Sarnoski teased that audiences would see 'some of his musclebound physique', though he remained coy on how much of the actor's striking grey hair and beard was real. He emphasised that this version stands apart, promising that the 'performances are so specific and so different from what you’ve seen before'.
The film was shot in Ireland in 2025, with Jackman later sharing behind-the-scenes photos and thanking the cast, crew, and the country for the 'wonderful experience'. 'The Death of Robin Hood' is scheduled for release in late 2026.
