Chris Stapleton Shares The Reason He Will Shave His Signature Beard
on Jan 23, 2026
Would you recognize Chris Stapleton without his iconic beard?
One day, possibly soon, the “Tennessee Whiskey” singer may be walking around without his signature facial hair. On a recent visit to Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast, Chris Stapleton says making a major change to his appearance is a part of his “retirement plan.”
The 47-year-old has never been a fan of fame. He released his debut album, Traveller, in May 2015, which he says he hoped would be just successful enough to allow him to make another album. However, six months later, he was thrust into super stardom after his mind-blowing duet with Justin Timberlake at the CMA Awards.
Chris says the rapid increase in attention was very difficult for him, as he suddenly had to deal with fans showing up at his home and other invasions of privacy. Dax joked that Chris has what he calls the “ZZ Top thing,” in which he could shave his beard someday and regain anonymity. Hear the conversation in the clip below!
Chris Stapleton Contemplates Retirement
The Kentucky native admits he has found himself at a crossroads in his career. He does not know when he will write another song or release another record, adding that he is “not really in the mood.”
“I don’t know how much longer I’ll even go play – I don’t know.”
As Chris Stapleton contemplates what the rest of his life will look like, he feels he “owes some things” to his family, who have made sacrifices for his music career. Chris has been married to his wife, Morgane, since 2007. Together they have five children: Waylon (16), Ada (15), Macon and Samual (twins, 7), and a 6-year-old sons whose name has not been shared publicly.
Chris has sold more than 10 million albums in the United States alone and received several awards from the Grammys, ACMs, CMAs, and more. His rendition of “Tennessee Whiskey” recently became the first-ever country song to be certified double diamond by the RIAA. He reflects:
“I’ve done more than I’ve ever set out to do… Now I have to get a new dream.”
The award-winning musician clarifies:
“I’m not saying I’m hanging up my spurs. I’m just saying I’m looking for the fire. I need the fire.”
Hear Chris Stapleton talk about retirement on Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard below!
