Looks can be deceiving. We know as much, because if you took just a cursory glance at the A-List guests attending Balenciaga’s latest runway show in Paris this week, you will have seen the rather unexpected sight of Jack Nicholson wearing a bathrobe and a maniacal grin. But, as we said, looks can be deceiving.
We use the term ‘unexpected’ because, now 87 years old, the Hollywood icon has been somewhat of a recluse since retiring from acting. Thus his appearance at Balenciaga’s Spring 2025 runway show would certainly qualify as an out-of-character move.
It’s out of character, because it wasn’t actually Jack Nicholson. It was, in fact, the renowned drag queen and social media personality, Alexis Stone dressed up as Nicholson in a startling impersonation the iconic actor.
The appearance was a bold and calculated move from Stone, that rather fittingly aligned with Balenciaga’s reputation for pushing boundaries and challenging conventional notions of beauty and style.
Stone’s transformation into Nicholson was nothing short of remarkable. From the signature grin to the carefully coiffed hair and even the distinctive wardrobe choices, every detail was meticulously crafted to capture the essence of the legendary actor.
The choice to impersonate Jack Nicholson was not without significance. Nicholson is a cultural icon, known for his roles in classic films such as Easy Rider, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, and The Shining. His rebellious spirit and unconventional persona have made him a beloved figure in popular culture.
By channeling Nicholson, Stone was not only paying homage to a cinematic legend but also making a statement about individuality, self-expression, and the power of transformation.
This is not the first time that Stone has used ambitious prosthetics to impersonate other famous pop-culture names – recently dressing up as Meryl Streep’s iconic character, Miranda Priestly, from The Devil Wears Prada (also wearing Balenciaga, fyi).
Balenciaga’s fashion shows are often characterized by their avant-garde designs and provocative themes. The brand has a history of challenging societal norms and pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in fashion. Stone’s bold stunt at the show was a perfect fit with Balenciaga’s aesthetic, and it served to reinforce the brand’s reputation as a fashion brand that doesn’t shy away from shock value.