Musician Bahati recently made good on a bold promise to shave off his dreadlocks following Arsenal’s defeat to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the Champions League semi-finals. The artist had maintained his signature locks for a decade, but a vow made with his wife pushed him to take the plunge if his beloved team were eliminated.
The crucial match saw Arsenal fall 2-1 in the second leg, resulting in a 3-1 loss on aggregate. For Bahati, the outcome meant there was no going back on his word. Despite his hope that Arsenal would emerge victorious, the reality set in early during the game, and he began to brace himself for the change.
In a playful twist, Bahati’s wife, Diana Marua, was eager to be part of the transformation. She even humorously showcased garden hedge shears in a video shared on their social media platforms, ready to be the one to cut his hair. However, Bahati opted for a more traditional approach, inviting his barber to their home the following day to complete the shave.
A video shared moments before the cut showed Bahati mentally preparing for the drastic change. Hours later, he returned online with a fresh, clean-shaven look that marked the end of an era. He captioned his reveal with “New season,” symbolizing a fresh start and his commitment to keeping promises, much to the respect of many.
The reactions from fans were swift and varied. Some were skeptical, with many questioning whether he had actually shaved his real locks or if it was simply a stunt. Comments flooded his social media, with fans demanding video proof to dispel their doubts. Others jokingly remarked that his new look resembled that of a pastor, while some praised him for being a man of his word.
Despite the playful banter and skepticism, Bahati’s gesture stood as a testament to his loyalty to his promises, even when tied to the unpredictable world of football. His wife, a Manchester United fan, could not resist poking fun at him following Arsenal’s loss, teasing him on social media for going quiet after the game. Bahati, choosing peace over playful bickering, left his meal at the table during her jokes, much to the amusement of their followers.
The clean shave symbolized more than just the end of his dreadlocks; it marked a new chapter for Bahati. His willingness to follow through on his word, even in the face of playful teasing and public scrutiny, left a lasting impression on many. His fans may have been divided in their reactions, but the musician’s commitment was undeniable, setting the stage for what he dubbed a “new season.”