As the highly anticipated second season of The Last of Us begins production, all eyes are on the new cast members joining this post-apocalyptic epic. Among the standout additions is Rutina Wesley, an actress known for her powerful screen presence, emotional depth, and equally iconic hairstyles. While fans are excited to see how her character will unfold in the dark and gripping world of the series, many are already buzzing about her hair—a unique and culturally resonant part of her on-screen identity.
Is Rutina Wesley’s Hair Real in The Last of Us Season 2?
At this point, HBO has not officially confirmed whether Rutina Wesley’s hair in The Last of Us Season 2 is her natural hair or a styled wig. However, based on her past roles and public appearances, it’s very likely that her hairstyle in the series is either:A protective style using her real hair (like braids or twists). Or a professionally styled wig or extensions that replicate natural textures.
Why Are People Asking If Rutina Wesley’s Hair Is Real？
Ruthina Wesley is often known for her stunning natural looks in real life, sometimes adding wigs to create iconic scenes. This time, Rutina Wesley's character's braids, which she also showed at the activity, blended perfectly with her facial features. The behind-the-scenes photos look incredibly natural and seamless. And the line between the two is often blurred, to the point where many fans wonder if it's her real hair.
The Significance Of Hairstyle To This Character
Rutina’s hair in The Last of Us Season 2 may speak volumes about who her character is. And it has the following meaning:
💡Practical Survivor: Locs Braids are a smart, functional choice. They hold up through physical strain, long periods without grooming, and harsh climates.
💡Cultural Identity: Even in dystopia, identity persists. A braided hairstyle tells us her character hasn’t let go of who she is.
💡Warrior Aesthetic: There's something inherently powerful in long, pulled-back braids—sharp, focused, and unyielding. Think of Michonne in The Walking Dead or Shuri in Black Panther—braided styles have become a visual symbol of strength.
About Rutina Wesley’s Hair:
Rutina Wesley is known for embracing natural and protective styles both on and off screen, including box braids, cornrows, and curly textures.In previous roles like Queen Sugar and True Blood, she often wore realistic, textured styles that blended her natural hair with protective techniques or high-quality wigs.For a post-apocalyptic show like The Last of Us, where practicality and realism matter, stylists usually choose functional yet authentic looks. For characters like hers, wigs or styles that mimic natural hair are common.
Let’s explore the many phases of Rutina Wesley’s iconic hair evolution.
1)Raw Natural Curls
One of the most celebrated aspects of Rutina’s style is her embrace of her natural curls. Whether styled in a short afro or full, voluminous coils, Wesley’s natural hair moments feel both grounded and empowering. Her curls highlight the beauty of textured hair, and she wears them with pride on red carpets, interviews, and in everyday life.
2)Protective Box Braids Hairstyles
Rutina Wesley has also frequently worn box braids, twists, and other protective styles — particularly in roles that require practicality and movement. These hairstyles serve both as a nod to African heritage and as a way to maintain hair health.
In shows like Queen Sugar, her character Nova often appears with intricate braids, symbolic of her spiritual and cultural roots. Whether worn long and flowing or tied back into a bun, Rutina's braided styles have become fan favorites.
3)Middle Part Straight Hair
Wesley isn’t afraid to glam things up for a night out. On red carpets, she’s been spotted in sleek ponytails, silky straight styles, and elegant updos. These styles showcase her versatility, highlighting her features and allowing her wardrobe choices to shine.
4)Bold Cuts and Edgy Statements
Over the years, Rutina has experimented with short cuts and edgy trims. Whether it’s a curly pixie cut or a shoulder-length blunt bob, these styles have given her a fierce, modern aesthetic. These bolder looks tend to show up when she’s exploring creative freedom, whether on a fashion shoot or in between acting projects.
Her willingness to take risks with her hair shows her fearless attitude and evolving relationship with beauty. It’s not just about what looks good — it’s about what feels right for her in the moment.
FAQ
Who Is Rutina Wesley?
Rutina Wesley is an American actress best known for her powerful roles in television drama series. She was born on December 21, 1978, which makes her 46 years old as of 2025.
Is Rutina Wesley Married?
Rutina Wesley was previously married to actor Jacob Fishel. They divorced in 2013. Currently, she is not publicly married and tends to keep her personal life private.
Rutina Wesley's Notable Movies and TV Shows:
🎬 TV Shows:
True Blood (2008–2014) – She played Tara Thornton, a bold and complex character in this popular vampire drama on HBO.
Queen Sugar (2016–2022) – Rutina starred as Nova Bordelon, a journalist and activist, in this family drama created by Ava DuVernay and produced by Oprah Winfrey.
The Walking Dead (2023) – She appeared in the spinoff series The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live.
The Last of Us (Season 2) – She is joining the cast in the upcoming hit HBO post-apocalyptic drama season.
🎥 Movies:
How She Move (2007) – Rutina starred as Rayanna, a talented dancer, in this Canadian dance drama.
13 Sins (2014) – She played a supporting role in this psychological horror-thriller.
Conclusion:
Every hairstyle Rutina Wesley wears sends a message. We should not pay too much attention to whether the hair is real, but should pay more attention to her healthy beauty and the attention it conveys from honoring Black hair traditions to challenging beauty standards. Her hairstyles reflect a deep understanding of identity, heritage, and femininity. She represents a generation of women who use their hair as a form of resistance, pride, and personal storytelling.
