Lucille Ball, the iconic redhead, is eternally associated with her vibrant hair color. But was she a natural redhead? The answer might surprise you! Contrary to popular belief, Lucille Ball wasn’t born with fiery red locks. Her natural hair color was actually a much more subdued brown.
From Brunette to Bombshell: The Transformation of Lucy’s Hair
Lucille Ball began her career as a brunette. Early publicity photos reveal a woman with dark hair and striking features. So, how did she make the switch to the red that would define her career?
As her career progressed in Hollywood, she, like many actresses, experimented with her appearance. It’s believed that she began lightening her hair in the 1930s, likely to stand out in Technicolor films that were becoming increasingly popular. This experimentation led her to a reddish-brown hue.
However, it was during her time as a Goldwyn Girl that she fully embraced the fiery red we all know. It’s said that a studio executive suggested she go “more vibrant” with her hair, and thus, the iconic “Lucille Ball Red” was born.
The Science Behind “Lucille Ball Red”
Achieving and maintaining Lucille Ball’s signature red was no easy feat. In those days, hair dye technology wasn’t as advanced as it is today. To get her desired shade, she reportedly used henna, a natural dye derived from a plant.
Henna, known for its vibrant reddish-orange tint, can be difficult to work with, often resulting in uneven color and a tendency to fade quickly. This meant frequent touch-ups for Lucy to maintain her signature look.
The Legacy of a Redhead
Lucille Ball’s red hair became so iconic that it transcended her career. It became a symbol of her comedic brilliance, her fiery personality, and her enduring legacy in entertainment. Even today, “Lucille Ball Red” is a sought-after hair color, a testament to the impact she made on popular culture.
Though not her natural shade, the vibrant red became synonymous with Lucille Ball. It played a crucial role in shaping her on-screen persona and contributed to her status as a comedy legend.
