No, Derek Jacobi did not wear a wig in his role as Brother Cadfael. Instead of using a bald cap wig, he had his own hair shaved into a tonsure for the filming of the series.
Dedication to Authenticity
Sir Derek Jacobi, portraying the retired Crusader Knight turned Benedictine Brother, went to significant lengths to embody the character authentically. Rather than opting for a prosthetic bald cap or a wig, Jacobi chose to shave his head into the traditional monastic tonsure.
This commitment to realism was notable among the cast:
- Jacobi's Choice: He personally shaved his head to achieve the distinctive hairstyle of a medieval monk. This decision highlights his dedication to the role, aiming for complete accuracy in his portrayal of Brother Cadfael.
- Cast Reactions: While some actors on set reportedly found this level of commitment "a little too far," others were inspired and followed suit, also having their own heads shaved for their monastic roles. This collective effort contributed to the visual authenticity of the series.
This approach ensured that the portrayal of Cadfael was as true to historical monastic appearance as possible, enhancing the immersive experience for viewers.
