Jude Law admits: ‘I played against my looks, now I'm saggy and balding’

"I wish I had played it up more," reflects Jude Law on not capitalizing on his looks in his early twenties.

In a recent interview with DuJour magazine, Jude Law, the distinguished actor known for his roles in "The Talented Mr. Ripley," "The Holiday," and "Alfie," shared his retrospective thoughts on his career trajectory and his choice of roles. 

At 51, Law expressed a nuanced regret for not having leaned into roles that capitalized on his good looks earlier in his career. 

"I didn’t feel like I really ever leaned into playing handsome, but there were roles that required an attractive energy," Law stated.

Law's recent roles have seen him transforming into characters far removed from the conventional leading man, such as his portrayal of a past king of England in his latest film. 

"I was trying to play against my looks in my early 20s, and now I’m saggy and balding," he humorously noted. 

His dedication to authenticity led him to adopt a drastic physical transformation, including a weighted costume and a specially crafted scent that mimicked the historical figure's unpleasant odor due to a rotting leg, a result of a jousting accident.

"I read several interesting accounts that you could smell Henry three rooms away. His leg was rotting so badly. He hid it with rose oil," Law explained, illustrating the lengths he went to embody the character fully.

Meanwhile, Jude Law's enthusiasm for acting seems to have inspired his son, Rafferty Law, who is carving out his own path in Hollywood.

The 27-year-old actor recently appeared in "Masters of the Air" on Apple TV+, sharing the screen with notable actors like Austin Butler and Barry Keoghan. 

Jude Law expressed pride and excitement over his son's burgeoning career, while also acknowledging the unique challenges it presents. 

"I’m thrilled because we get to share our enthusiasm, and I get to give him advice if he wants to hear it," he shared.

However, he also noted the complications, stating, "It’s complicated, because I’m aware of how hard it is."

Looking ahead, Jude Law is set to star in Disney+'s upcoming "Star Wars" series, "Skeleton Crew," slated for release later this year.