After a two-year hiatus, 'American Idol' star Bo Bice returns with a brand new look

The long-haired rocker look was his signature. Now 'American Idol' singer Bo Bice has appeared in a completely new image, unveiling a dramatic transformation on Instagram that drew mixed reactions from fans — some praised the change, while others said they wanted the old look back.

In the new photo, Bice's hair is much shorter than before. Sunglasses, layered necklaces and an open patterned shirt give him a presence entirely different from his familiar Southern rocker image.

Bice himself took the change lightly. He shared a split-screen 'Then and Now' photo, with his old long-haired look on one side and the new style on the other. Joking in the caption, he wrote, 'Well, well, Tinkerbell... Who's THAT guy?!' The graphic carried the words 'A BRAND NEW MAN · RESURRECTED 2027'.

Not every fan welcomed the new look, however. One Instagram user commented that while the look was very different, he would suggest ditching the necklaces and buttoning up the shirt. Another was even less impressed, writing that they did not care for the new look at all and found it awful — though they still liked to hear him sing.

Supporters were plentiful too. 'Look good! Glad you are back!' one person wrote. Another commented, 'You looked good then and now. Keep rockin!' A third fan added, 'Let's go Bo!! I was cheering for you then & now as well!!'

Alongside the makeover came a hint of a musical comeback. Bice has not released new music in two years. In his post he wrote, 'Ain't it funny what 2 years'll do in your life.' He noted that his most recent release was 'Born of Heroes Blood', which won Most Impactful Song of the Year at the Hollywood Independent Music Awards, where he also took the vocalist honour.

Offering what he called a blast from his past and a glimpse into his future, he wrote that he returns with 'a new life, new style, but the same southern soul', signing off with the hashtag 'BRANDNEWMAN'.

Bo Bice rose to fame in the fourth season of 'American Idol' in 2005, finishing as runner-up to Carrie Underwood. His gritty vocals, Southern rock sound and signature long locks made him stand out — an identity that has now largely been left behind.