Sam Elliott's Mullet Era Was Pure Magic—See the Iconic Photos
Over the years, the iconic looks of Sam Elliott have stolen hearts, and no matter how much time passes, the Landman and 1883 actor remains a certified hunk. Whether it was the salt-and-pepper locks of his younger years, that ever-present ‘stache that only gets better with age or his slick, white strands at 81 years old, it’s safe to say he can pull off just about any look—but there’s one look from his past that fans can’t help but look back on with love. One of the most popular hairstyles of the 70s and 80s, the mullet is making a comeback. A shorter cut on the sides and top is accompanied by a longer, flowing look down the back, and Sam Elliott sported a style similar to this during his early career. As young men nowadays opt for this retro look, take a look back at one of Sam’s best hairstyles—that younger generations are emulating today.
Sam looks swoon-worthy in the ’70s
Sam Elliott poses in this 1975 snapshot, and that retro ‘do paired with his signature mustache is as good as it gets! Around this time, Elliott was putting in the work on screen, appearing in guest roles and various supporting parts in both television and film.
Sam Elliott in ‘Mask’
The actor rocked a mullet once again in the 1985 film Mask, in which he starred opposite Cher and Eric Stoltz.
Luscious locks we love
Does it get any cooler than this? A 42-year-old Sam Elliott stuns in this 1987 photograph at USA Today‘s fifth anniversary celebration. Between the hair, the outfit and the mustache, we can’t decide which detail of this look is our favorite!
Sam and Whoopi shine in ‘Fatal Beauty’
Sam Elliott and Whoopi Goldberg starred side-by-side in the 1987 action comedy Fatal Beauty, where Goldberg led the way as Detective Rita Rizzoli.
Sam with no ‘stache
Sam Elliott with no mustache is certainly a rare sight to see, but we don’t love him any less without it! In this 1988 photograph, Elliott attends the Golden Globe Awards alongside his wife, Katharine Ross. The duo got married in 1984 after meeting on the set of horror movie The Legacy (1978)—and it sure didn’t scare off their love, which has remained strong ever since!
Sam strikes a pose in the early ’90s
Sam Elliott’s mullet is on point in this brooding photograph from decades ago, and we’re starting to think he ought to bring this look back once and for all! Whether he’s sporting that legendary mullet from his younger years or rocking his distinguished silver fox look today, one thing’s for certain: Sam Elliott has always been—and will always be—a timeless heartthrob. His effortless cool, that iconic mustache and his genuine warmth have made him a beloved figure for generations.
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This story was originally published June 15, 2026 at 5:00 PM.