Renée Zellweger’s Plastic Surgery Rumors: Fact or Fiction?

Curious about Renée Zellweger's plastic surgery rumors? Discover the truth behind her rejuvenated appearance and learn if the actress really went under the knife.

Chhavi Puri
Written by Chhavi Puri , Skincare Coach & Makeup Expert
Updated on Sep 26, 2023 | 06:43 PM IST | 425.7K
Renée Zellweger's plastic surgery
Renée Zellweger's plastic surgery
Key Highlight

Renée Zellweger is a name that is known in Hollywood for her undeniable acting skills. She has starred in some of the biggest films of the past two decades and has received critical acclaim for her performances. However, in recent years, there have been a lot of rumors swirling around Renée Zellweger’s plastic surgery.

The speculation began when the actress made a comeback to the big screen after a six-year hiatus and her red carpet appearance was drastically different. Fans were quick to comment on her new look, with many believing that she had undergone several procedures, including a facelift, fillers, and Botox.

The actress was quick to deny any plastic surgery rumors and claimed that her new appearance was simply the result of aging and lifestyle changes. However, many people still believe that she has undergone plastic surgery and that her denials are just an attempt to hide the truth. Whatever the case may be, Renée Zellweger’s cosmetic surgery has become a hot topic in Hollywood, and it is unlikely to go away anytime soon. 

In this article, we will explore the rumors and try to get to the bottom of what really may have happened.

Who Is Renée Zellweger?

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Renée Zellweger's plastic surgery

Renée Zellweger is a highly accomplished American actress, known for her stunning performances in a wide range of film genres. Born on April 25th, 1969 in Katy, Texas, she initially pursued a degree in English before embarking on a career in acting.

Her breakthrough role came in the hit film "Jerry Maguire" (1996), where she starred alongside Tom Cruise and garnered widespread acclaim for her portrayal of a fiery and determined single mother. From there, she continued to solidify her status as one of Hollywood's leading ladies, with standout performances in films like "Bridget Jones's Diary" (2001), "Chicago" (2002), and "Cold Mountain" (2003).

Despite her success on the big screen, Zellweger has also maintained an active presence in other facets of the entertainment industry. In addition to acting, she has worked as a producer and executive producer on several films and TV shows. She co-produced the comedy-drama film "Miss Potter," which tells the story of Beatrix Potter, the author of the beloved children's book, Peter Rabbit.

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Throughout her career, Zellweger has earned numerous accolades for her work, including three Academy Award nominations and a win for Best Supporting Actress in "Cold Mountain". With a fierce dedication to her craft and a track record of delivering standout performances, Renée Zellweger is a true force to be reckoned with in the world of entertainment.

Are Renée Zellweger’s Face Surgery Rumors True?

Renée Zellweger's plastic surgery

In 2014, amidst her hiatus, the renowned Case 39 actress graced the Elle Women in Hollywood Awards. She had reached the age of 45, and her previous public appearance was when she was 41. However, whispers amongst the spectators implied that the Hollywood icon may have undergone cosmetic surgery during those four years.

The press couldn't stop obsessing over the transformation of Zellweger's face, even major publications joined the ridicule. Critics threw harsh words her way, questioning why she would ever alter her appearance. Anybody in her shoes would have crumbled under the weight of such public scrutiny. However, Renée chose to stand firm.

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In an interview with People magazine in 2014, she boldly stated, "I’m glad folks think I look different. I’m living a different, happy, more fulfilling life, and I’m thrilled that perhaps it shows." Regarding the unnecessary commotion surrounding her looks, she dismissed it as "silly." Renée went further to explain, “People don’t know me [as] healthy for a while. Perhaps I look different. Who doesn’t as they get older?! Ha. But I am different. I’m happy.”

But wait, there's more. Even prior to 2014, folks were quick to mock Renée Zellweger's squint eyes and her pronounced pout. But when the news broke in 2014 about her transformation, the criticism reached new heights. Suddenly, it seemed everyone was talking about Renée Zellweger’s plastic surgery as if she had betrayed them all. In truth, whether she went under the knife or not, there was always a snide remark to be made about her appearance.

Renée Zellweger’s Plastic Surgery: What Did She Have Done?

Renée Zellweger's plastic surgery

Rumors have circulated around Renée Zellweger’s then and now photos and she is speculated to have undergone the following surgeries:

1. Blepharoplasty:

There was one thing that everyone could agree on: the actress's eyes looked different. Having been born with beautiful hooded eyes, her upper eyelids lacked the crease that many people typically had. 

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However, after making an appearance at an awards ceremony, people began to speculate that she had undergone eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, in order to remove excess skin and fat from her upper eye area. This led to a hollowed-out look that made her eyes appear larger.

In 2016, the iconic actress decided to speak out about the rumors, writing an op-ed in the Huffington Post. She said, “The ‘eye surgery’ tabloid story itself did not matter, but it became the catalyst for my inclusion in subsequent legitimate news stories about self-acceptance and women succumbing to social pressure to look and age a certain way.”

2. Brow Lift:

Rumors circulated that the Chicago celebrity underwent more than just an eyelid surgery; speculations surfaced that she also underwent an eyebrow lift. The sudden positioning of the ends of her brows in a higher location was attributed to this procedure. But here's a fun fact — gossip about her brow lift actually circulated even before her 2014 look! 

If you're wondering what an eyebrow lift is, it's a technique used to lift and position drooping eyebrows — something that naturally occurs as we age. The procedure also has the added benefit of smoothing out forehead skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

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3. Botox:

Renée Zellweger's plastic surgery

With its incredible mechanism, Botox intercepts nerve signals that prompt muscles to contract. Rumor has it that the award-winning star underwent the Botox procedure on her forehead, presumably to erase unsightly wrinkles. Yet, on closer inspection, it appears that this speculation holds no merit.

4. Fillers:

For ages, Zellweger's cheeks have been subject to ridicule, with comparisons being drawn to that of a “chipmunk.” However, instead of chalking it up to genetics, critics have pointed fingers at cosmetic procedures (despite fillers not technically qualifying as surgery). 

There have been whispers of cheek implants or even fat transplants contributing to her puffy appearance. Additionally, rumors circulate that Zellweger has altered the shape of her jawline through cosmetic filler injections.

Renée Zellweger’s Plastic Surgery: Before And After Plastic Surgery

Prior to the rumored surgeries, Renee was known for her girl-next-door looks, with a soft, round face and cute dimples. However, her current appearance seems to have a sharper, more angular edge, which has left many fans confused and wondering whether she went under the knife. Although Renee has not publicly admitted to undergoing any surgical procedures, her before-and-after pictures tell a different story. As you can see, her eyelids appear more open and lifted, her nose looks slimmer and straighter, and her jawline is more defined and sculpted.

Before:

Renée Zellweger's plastic surgery

After:

Renée Zellweger's plastic surgery

What Impact Did Renée Zellweger's Plastic Surgery Rumors Have on Her Career?

In an interview with SiriusXM's Jess Cagle, Zellweger shared a moment when she found herself seated beside a group of particularly vocal commuters. Unbeknownst to the commuters, they had begun to ridicule her recent physical changes, commenting harshly that she looked “stupid” and “didn’t look like herself anymore”.

However, being the true embodiment of British poise, Zellweger quietly rose from her seat and departed the train without uttering a single word. But even as she left, she couldn't help but notice the crowd's stunned reactions. One man from the group turned to her in confusion, exclaiming: “Oh God, you’re not... you are! Oh my God, but you look just like yourself!”

To this, Zellweger simply replied: "Yeah, it’s funny how that works, isn’t it?"

And she is absolutely correct. A well-trained practitioner would never be able to drastically alter a patient's face beyond recognition through surgery or fillers. It is important to remember that with proper procedures, one should always look and feel like themselves.

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Conclusion

Over the years, Renée Zellweger’s plastic surgery rumors have led the actress to face considerable criticism and speculation. It is a personal choice to make alterations to one's appearance, and no one should face public scrutiny or judgment for it. After a six-year hiatus, some may have been shocked to see a different look from Zellweger, but it is important to respect her decision and the agency she has over her own body. Criticism of such choices only perpetuates negative conversations and harmful societal standards and expectations.

ALSO READ: A Closer Look at Catherine Zeta-Jones' Plastic Surgery Journey

FAQs:

Is Renée Zellweger living with Ant?
The pair, who crossed paths while working on Ant’s program Celebrity IOU: Joyride in the spring of 2021, have since shared a residence in Laguna Beach, California.

Is Renée Zellweger Married?
Renée and singer Kenny Chesney got married in May 2005, but their marriage ended just four months later.

Does Renée Zellweger have children?
No, Renée Zellweger does not have any children.

Did Renée Zellweger admit to having plastic surgery?
In a 2016 op-ed for The Huffington Post, Renée Zellweger clarified, Not that it's anyone's business, but I did not make a decision to alter my face and have surgery on my eyes.”

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About The Author
Chhavi Puri
Chhavi Puri
Skincare Coach & Makeup Expert

Chhavi is a certified Skincare Coach and she's also certified in Makeup Artistry. Her fascination with skincare

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