Why Captain Kirk’s Hair Was Curly in the TOS Star Trek Movies

The decision to make Captain Kirk's hair curly in the Star Trek movies is often a subject of fascination among fans. Several factors contributed to this change, reflecting character evolution, styling trends, and practical reasons. This article delves into these aspects, providing a comprehensive understanding of this change in hairstyle.

Character Evolution

Character Evolution: As the Star Trek universe aged and transitioned from the television series to movies, there was a desire to give the characters a more mature and distinguished look. The curlier hairstyle, adopted in the films, aligns with this evolution. It signifies a deeper, more experienced Captain Kirk, better suited for the grander scale of the cinematic experience.

Styling Trends of the Late 1970s

Styling Trends: The late 1970s and early 1980s were marked by distinct fashion trends, a stark contrast to the 1960s. The curly hairstyle adopted for Captain Kirk reflects these contemporary styles. It made the characters appear more relevant to the contemporary audience, enhancing their appeal and making the series feel more timely.

Visual Distinction

Visual Distinction: The filmmakers aimed to create a clear visual distinction between the original TV series and the films. Changing Captain Kirk's hairstyle helped signify a new era for the franchise, setting the stage for a fresh narrative and visual style. This change in appearance emphasized the transition from the beloved series to a new, immersive filmmaking experience.

Practical Reasons

Practical Reasons: Some changes in hairstyle were due to practical factors. These included hair texture, styling products available at the time, and the availability of hair stylists. For example, curlier hair may be easier to style and maintain, especially in frequent on-set reshoots and special effects shots. These practical considerations often play a significant role in how actors' hair is styled for film production.

A Curly Hairpiece for Visual Distinction

A curly hairpiece didn't require as much attention to maintain continuity from scene to scene. This was particularly useful during production when multiple takes and reshoots were common.

The Fashion of Permed Hair in the 1970s

Permed hair was a predominant fashion trend in the 1970s, both for women and men. Terry Proctor and Rae Carson raised this as a significant factor influencing the hairstyle. Permed hair not only aligned with the fashion of the time but also had the desirable effect of making William Shatner's physique appear more balanced and athletic. This combination of practical and aesthetic advantages contributed to the choice of a curly hairstyle for Captain Kirk in the movies.

The decision to use a toupee or a series of toupees with a bit of curl was also influenced by Shatner's naturally receding hairline. Back then, as it is now, it was a common practice for actors to wear wigs, toupees, or extensions to enhance their performances and public appearances. This practice continues to be relevant as actors tailor their appearances to fit specific roles and maintain their look across various media.

In conclusion, the change in Captain Kirk's hairstyle was a combination of character evolution, contemporary fashion trends, and practical filmmaking considerations. These factors collectively contributed to the decision to make his hair curly in the Star Trek movies, setting the stage for a new era of the franchise.