Roma Downey has surprised fans by unveiling a striking new hairstyle, marking one of the biggest changes to her appearance since rising to international fame in the 1990s.
The 66-year-old actress shared the transformation on Instagram, replacing the signature long red hair that became synonymous with her role in Touched by an Angel with a short ash-blonde bob.
Introducing the new style, Downey reassured followers with a playful message confirming the photos were indeed of her.
She described the haircut as a bold decision and said she was delighted with the fresh look, calling the chic bob “very French” and admitting it was the shortest hairstyle she had ever worn.
A Signature Look Left Behind
Downey became a household name portraying the angel Monica in the long-running television drama Touched by an Angel.
Throughout the series, she was recognized for her flowing red hair, a look she maintained for many years while attending premieres, award ceremonies and public appearances.
The actress appeared alongside cast members Valerie Bertinelli, the late John Dye and gospel music legend Della Reese, with her distinctive hairstyle becoming one of the defining visual trademarks of the beloved series.
Embracing Change With Confidence
While acknowledging that the new hairstyle is a dramatic departure from the image many fans remember, Downey said she believes changing one’s appearance can be refreshing.
She explained that trying something different keeps life interesting and helps maintain a youthful spirit.
According to the actress, the lighter, shorter cut feels especially suited to the summer season, offering a fresh and carefree alternative to her longtime hairstyle.
Celebrity Stylist Behind the Transformation
Downey credited celebrity hairstylist Riawna Capri for creating the new look. Capri has built a reputation for working with high-profile clients, including Selena Gomez and Julianne Hough.
After sharing the makeover, the actress was met with an outpouring of supportive comments from fans, prompting her to publish a follow-up post thanking them for their encouragement.
Fans Respond Positively to the New Image
Expressing her appreciation for the overwhelming reaction, Downey acknowledged that many viewers still associate her with Monica’s iconic long red hair from Touched by an Angel.
She reflected that while her appearance has changed considerably, life naturally evolves over time.
Downey added that the hairstyle feels cool, light and fun during the hot weather and joked that she has yet to discover how much effort it will require once she begins styling it herself at home.
Despite the uncertainty, she said the haircut makes her feel confident and spirited, adding with humor that her husband, television producer Mark Burnett, is also a fan of the transformation.
A Long-Lasting Partnership
Downey married Burnett in 2007 after both had previously been married twice.
Burnett is widely known as the creator of The Apprentice and has also produced major television franchises including Survivor, The Voice, Shark Tank and Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader?
The couple have frequently appeared together at entertainment events over the years, with Downey maintaining her familiar red-haired look until unveiling this latest makeover.
Reflecting on Growing Older Together
Downey has previously spoken openly about aging alongside Burnett.
In a 2023 interview with AARP magazine, she shared that the couple keep a plaque featuring poet Robert Browning’s famous quote, “Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be.”
She joked that when they first bought the plaque, they never imagined thinking of each other as old, but now laugh together at how they feel before fully waking up each morning.
Despite the humor, Downey said she considers herself fortunate to share life with a supportive partner and someone she is happy to grow older alongside.
Honored Career Continues Beyond Television
Beyond her acting success, Downey has continued to build a career as a producer, author and public figure.
In recognition of her contributions, the Derry-born star was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2021.
Her latest hairstyle may be a dramatic departure from the image that made her famous, but the overwhelmingly positive reaction from fans suggests many are embracing this new chapter just as enthusiastically as she is.
Summary
Roma Downey has introduced a dramatic new ash-blonde bob, ending decades of sporting the long red hair closely associated with her role as Monica in Touched by an Angel.
The actress described the haircut as a bold but refreshing change, thanked fans for their supportive reactions, and said the transformation reflects her belief in embracing change while enjoying every stage of life alongside husband Mark Burnett.
