'American Idol' star Bo Bice trades signature rocker look for new image as fans sound off

Long-haired rocker Bo Bice is a thing of the past — at least for now.

The former "American Idol" runner-up drew mixed reactions from fans after unveiling a dramatic transformation on Instagram.

Bice traded his familiar long-haired rocker look for a shorter hairstyle, pairing it with sunglasses, layered necklaces and an open patterned shirt.

"Very different look but I would suggest to ditch the necklaces and button up the shirt," one Instagram user commented.

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Former "American Idol" runner-up Bo Bice ditched his signature long hair for a dramatic new look more than two decades after competing on the hit singing competition. (Frank Micelotta / Getty Images)

Another Instagram user was even less impressed, writing, "I don't care at all for the new look! It's awful. Do, however, like to [hear] him sing. Not onto that look at all! YUK!"

Bice appeared to embrace the change, sharing a split-screen "Then and Now" photo that compared his longtime rocker image with his new look.

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"Well, well, Tinkerbell... Who's THAT guy?!" he joked in the Instagram caption. The graphic featured the words "A BRAND NEW MAN · RESURRECTED 2027."

Despite the criticism, other fans praised Bice's new appearance.

Bo Bice showed off a striking transformation on Instagram, trading his familiar Southern rocker image for a bold new style that drew mixed reactions from fans. (Frazer Harrison/Getty Images; Bo Bice/Instagram)

"Look good! Glad you are back!" one person wrote.

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Another commented, "You looked good then and now. Keep rockin!"

"Let's go Bo!! I was cheering for you then & now as well!!" a third fan added.

Bo Bice rose to fame on the fourth season of "American Idol" in 2005, becoming known for his gritty vocals, Southern rock sound and signature long locks. (AP Images)

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Bice also hinted at a musical comeback after a two-year music hiatus.

"Ain't it funny what 2 years'll do in your life," he wrote. "I haven't released new music since Born of Heroes Blood - Hollywood Independent Music Awards for Most Impactful Song of the Year - Vocalist- Bo Bice."

"American Idol" alum Bo Bice turned heads with a before-and-after photo highlighting his dramatic makeover 21 years after finishing second to Carrie Underwood. (Eric McCandless/Disney via Getty Images)

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"Here's a blast from my past and a glimpse into my future with a new life, new style, but the same southern soul. I'm here to offer you a #BRANDNEWMAN!"

Bice rose to fame during the fourth season of "American Idol" in 2005, finishing as runner-up to Carrie Underwood. 

His gritty vocals, Southern rock sound and signature long hair helped make him one of the season's most recognizable contestants.

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Stephanie Giang-Paunon is an entertainment reporter for Fox News Digital.