AFL Star Bailey Smith's Shaved Head Stuns Fans in Elaborate April Fools' Prank
Australian football heartthrob Bailey Smith, renowned for his distinctive blond mullet, sent shockwaves through the sporting community this week when the Geelong Cats posted images of him with a dramatically shaved head. The 25-year-old midfielder, often dubbed the AFL's poster boy, appeared in the photos with his signature locks completely gone, leaving many fans in a state of disbelief and dismay.
Fan Reactions Range from Horror to Approval
The Geelong Cats shared the startling pictures on their official Instagram account on Wednesday, prompting an immediate and emotional response from supporters. Numerous comments flooded in, with one fan pleading, 'Please tell me this is AI,' while another admitted, 'This genuinely scared me for a second.' A third dramatically wrote, 'I just fell to my knees,' and a fourth simply exclaimed, 'NOOOOOOOO.' The shaved head represented a radical departure from Smith's famous hairstyle, which has become a key part of his public persona.
However, not all reactions were negative. Some Geelong enthusiasts saw the cropped look as an improvement, with comments such as 'Here for it,' 'now that's better,' and 'okay Brad Pitt.' Others praised his appearance with remarks like 'still fit' and even suggested, 'let's hope every teenage boy follows suit.' The mixed responses highlighted the strong connection fans feel towards Smith's iconic image.
The Truth Behind the Prank and Other Sporting Jokes
As it turned out, the entire scenario was an AI-generated April Fools' Day joke, and Bailey Smith's mullet remains perfectly intact. This gag was part of a series of sport-related pranks orchestrated for April first across various leagues. In another instance, the Tasmania Devils posted on Instagram claiming that NRL star Ryan Papenhuyzen had signed with their team.
Additionally, a South Sydney fan page circulated an AI-generated image showing the statue of winger Alex Johnston covered in Roosters-themed graffiti, mocking its recent unveiling after he broke the NRL try-scoring record. Cricket fans were also treated to fabricated news that Test great Brett Lee, aged 49 and retired since 2012, had signed with the Sydney Sixers Big Bash League side for the next two seasons.
Bailey Smith's Future in Television Commentary
Amidst the April Fools' fun, serious developments are unfolding in Bailey Smith's career. According to respected AFL reporter and Seven star Caroline Wilson, Smith is keen to join Channel Seven's commentary team this year. Speaking on The Agenda Setters last week, Wilson revealed that Smith wants football people to see a new side of him, focusing on his football intelligence.
'What I have found out in the last couple of days is that Bailey Smith wants football people to see a new side of Bailey Smith, and that is his footy IQ,' Wilson stated. 'He wants to work for Channel Seven on game days. I'm not saying he's going to come in as a special commentator during matches right now, but I can tell you that before midway through this season, I reckon we're going to see Bailey Smith analysing games, potentially at halftime, pre-game or potentially post-game.'
Reports indicate that the Geelong Cats are supportive of Smith taking this first step into television work. This move aligns with the club's culture, as assistant coach Nathan Buckley already works as an analyst for Fox Sports. Smith's potential role aims to showcase his deep understanding of the game, shifting public perception beyond his on-field prowess and distinctive hairstyle.
