Natalie Dormer’s Head Shave Story

When Natalie Dormer took on the role of Cressida in The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, she embraced a bold physical transformation. In the books, Cressida is described with a shaved head and vine tattoos, and Dormer wanted to stay true to that vision.

The final look—a half-shaved head—was the result of a creative decision with the director. They felt the style was edgier, more futuristic, and perfect for Cressida’s Capitol origins. Dormer was so committed that she said she would have shaved her entire head if needed.

On set, the shaved side wasn’t a one-time cut. It had to be maintained daily, with the buzz refreshed each morning before filming. Afterward, makeup artists would apply the intricate vine tattoo to complete the look. The early morning call times made it a demanding ritual, but Dormer took it in stride.


 For her, the transformation was both a little emotional and surprisingly liberating. Friends couldn’t resist running their hands over the buzzed side of her head, which she described with humor as feeling like a free head massage.


Behind the scenes, she approached the clippers with a smile, owning the change with a mix of elegance and rebellious spirit—perfectly capturing the essence of Cressida.