Hollywood star Bradley Cooper has publicly addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his appearance, firmly denying he has undergone any cosmetic surgery.
Podcast Confession Among Friends
The 51-year-old actor, director, and producer finally broke his silence during a candid conversation on the popular SmartLess podcast, released on Monday, 5 January 2026. Cooper joined hosts and longtime friends Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett for an unfiltered discussion that inevitably turned to the online chatter about his face.
The topic arose when Arnett recalled being asked to share a lesser-known fact about Cooper. "I said, 'Well, there's a lot, everybody thinks that Bradley's had plastic surgery,'" Arnett recounted. He then clarified, "What people don't know is that he hasn't. Right?" Bateman echoed the point for emphasis: "That he hasn't." Arnett confirmed once more, "Yeah. Of course, he hasn't."
Cooper laughed in response, acknowledging the comments he's faced recently. "No, I get people [coming] up to me the last couple weeks. They're like, 'Oh, you look good! Yeah. Yeah, but it's a crazy—," he said, trailing off. Arnett interjected, calling the widespread speculation "hilarious" and criticising how people "think they know" based on unfounded reports.
Months of Speculation and Expert Commentary
This marked the first time the Oscar-nominated actor directly acknowledged the cosmetic surgery rumours that have swirled for months. Public curiosity intensified in late 2023 during press events for his work, where fans noted his smoother complexion and more defined features.
The debate reignited recently during promotional activities for Cooper's latest film, Is This Thing On?, which he directed and produced. The movie stars Arnett and Laura Dern as a couple navigating a relationship crisis.
In October 2025, cosmetic surgeon Gerard Lambe, who has never treated Cooper, commented to the Daily Mail. He suggested any perceived changes could be the result of subtle procedures like a jawline lift or lower facelift, possibly involving techniques to tighten skin and refine facial structure. However, Lambe stressed that if any work had been done, it appeared "natural and well-executed."
Focus on Work and Personal Life
Despite the relentless gossip, Cooper's focus remains firmly on his professional projects and personal life. He has been frequently seen in public, both promoting his film and with his girlfriend, model Gigi Hadid.
The pair, who have been linked since October 2023, were last spotted together at a December matinee of Waiting for Godot on Broadway. They posed for photos with fellow stars Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter, showcasing a life centred on art and companionship rather than the rumours he has now definitively quashed.
