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George Clooney | George Clooney and Julia Roberts | Source: Youtube.com | Getty Images
George Clooney | George Clooney and Julia Roberts | Source: Youtube.com | Getty Images

George Clooney’s Trademark Smile Has Been Making Headlines Years after Bell’s Palsy — Photos

Milly Wanjiku Ndirangu
Oct 01, 2023
05:00 A.M.
  • George Clooney's trademark smile has not only graced countless magazine covers but has also been the subject of admiration and discussion for years.
  • This headline-making smile, once affected by Bell's Palsy, continues to shine brightly among other legendary smiles in Hollywood.
  • So, what makes Clooney's smile so special, and what's the story behind it?
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George Clooney during a portrait session on March 2, 1992, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

George Clooney during a portrait session on March 2, 1992, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

George Clooney, the man whose smile could light up a room, has been making headlines for years, and not just because of his acting prowess. In Hollywood, where charisma is a currency, Clooney is undoubtedly a wealthy man when it comes to his signature smile.

George Clooney during a portrait session in May 1985 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

George Clooney during a portrait session in May 1985 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

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Beyond its magnetic appeal, Clooney's smile, often called one of the best in Hollywood, isn't just about appearances; it's a window into his charisma and resilience. The story behind this captivating grin encompasses his rise to fame, personal battles, and a heartwarming journey through life's ups and downs.

George Clooney at "The Tender Bar" premiere during the 65th BFI London Film Festival on October 10, 2021, in London, England | Source: Getty Images

George Clooney at "The Tender Bar" premiere during the 65th BFI London Film Festival on October 10, 2021, in London, England | Source: Getty Images

George Clooney's Headline-Making Smile

Vulture, in a 2009 listicle titled "17 of Clooney’s Signature Expressions, Ranked," acknowledged the magnetic pull of his smile. While some may have dismissed it as smug, this list delved deep into Clooney's filmography, gauging his smirks and smiles using a highly scientific "Smarm to Charm" scale. Needless to say, his smiles consistently ranked high on the charm-o-meter.

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George Clooney stars in the movie "One Fine Day," 1996 | Source: Getty Images

George Clooney stars in the movie "One Fine Day," 1996 | Source: Getty Images

In 2013, the Huffington Post dubbed Clooney's smile a stress-reducer, labor-inducer, and even a promoter of world peace. People Magazine attributed the smile to his hit movie, "Gravity," where he starred alongside his close friend Sandra Bullock, and a bank account that could fund a small country.

A studio headshot captured actor George Clooney with a beaming smile on June 9, 1998. | Source: Getty Images

A studio headshot captured actor George Clooney with a beaming smile on June 9, 1998. | Source: Getty Images

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His million-dollar smile stayed intact, even amid a breakup in 2013, while he spent his summers in Italy as a newly single man. In 2014, GQ compiled a list of the "10 Best Men's Smiles," and Clooney claimed the second spot. The ranking came on the heels of his wedding to "the world's hottest lawyer," Amal Alamuddin, in the picturesque city of Venice.

George Clooney attending the Deutsche Postcode Lotterie Charity Gala 2023 on May 24, 2023, in Dusseldorf, Germany | Source: Getty Images

George Clooney attending the Deutsche Postcode Lotterie Charity Gala 2023 on May 24, 2023, in Dusseldorf, Germany | Source: Getty Images

His marriage and his critically-hyped movie, "Tomorrowland," were cited as the reasons behind his radiant smile. Even in a casual setting, surrounded by friends, his smile dazzles, leaving everyone in good spirits. But there's more to Clooney's smile than meets the eye. It's not just a product of happy moments.

George Clooney attending Digital X, in Cologne, Germany on September 20, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

George Clooney attending Digital X, in Cologne, Germany on September 20, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

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He sports this Hollywood accessory even during the most challenging times. In January 2023, during the Jimmy Kimmel 20th Anniversary Show, an unexpected story came to light. Kimmel shared Clooney's teenage photo, where he was seen smiling with only half of his face.

George Clooney of 'Catch 22' speaking onstage during the Hulu Panel on February 11, 2019, in Pasadena, California | Source: Getty Images

George Clooney of 'Catch 22' speaking onstage during the Hulu Panel on February 11, 2019, in Pasadena, California | Source: Getty Images

The cause of this peculiar sight? Bell's Palsy had temporarily rendered one side of his face immobile, a formidable challenge that Clooney tackled with his characteristic resilience.

In 2022, a tweet beautifully summed up the emotional impact of Clooney's smile, "George Clooney's smile makes me wanna cry." It's a testament to the power of his grin, which transcends screens and touches the hearts of millions.

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George Clooney participating in a portrait session in sunny Los Angeles, California in May 1985 | Source: Getty Images

George Clooney participating in a portrait session in sunny Los Angeles, California in May 1985 | Source: Getty Images

Behind the Smile: Clooney's Joyful Family Life

In 2017, Clooney and his wife Amal welcomed twins into their lives, Ella and Alexander. The couple's statement radiated joy, and Clooney's trademark smile seemed to broaden. The twins' birth certificates, obtained by People, revealed that Alexander arrived first, followed closely by Ella two minutes later.

Amal Clooney and George Clooney arriving at the premiere of Universal Pictures' "Ticket To Paradise" on October 17, 2022, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Amal Clooney and George Clooney arriving at the premiere of Universal Pictures' "Ticket To Paradise" on October 17, 2022, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

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A source close to the family expressed their elation, foreseeing Clooney as a fantastic father to the twins. Amal's boss, Geoffrey Robertson, QC of Doughty Street Chambers, also shared in their happiness, calling it a great co-production. Sources had confirmed the pregnancy in February, and Clooney, Amal, and both their families were overjoyed.

Amal Clooney and George Clooney attending March for Our Lives on March 24, 2018, in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images

Amal Clooney and George Clooney attending March for Our Lives on March 24, 2018, in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images

In an interview with Laurent Weil on his French program "Rencontres de Cinéma," Clooney shared his excitement and optimism, saying, "We are happy and excited. It's going to be an adventure." His words reflected the genuine joy that fatherhood had brought him.

George Clooney and his wife Amal Clooney attending the "Money Monster" premiere at the Palais des Festivals on May 12, 2016, in Cannes, France | Source: Getty Images

George Clooney and his wife Amal Clooney attending the "Money Monster" premiere at the Palais des Festivals on May 12, 2016, in Cannes, France | Source: Getty Images

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Clooney expressed gratitude for both his career and his loving relationship with Amal, gushing about what a lucky man he was to have found a perfect partner. He remarked, "Sometimes in life, it doesn't happen on your schedule, but you find the person that you were always supposed to be with."

Hollywood actor and director George Clooney, accompanied by his wife Amal, graced the premiere of the movie "Suburbicon" at the 74th Venice Film Festival on the picturesque Venice Lido | Source: Getty Image

Hollywood actor and director George Clooney, accompanied by his wife Amal, graced the premiere of the movie "Suburbicon" at the 74th Venice Film Festival on the picturesque Venice Lido | Source: Getty Image

Tom Cruise: Hollywood's Other Smiling Legend

Switching gears, let's not forget about another Hollywood icon with a dazzling smile – Tom Cruise. His smile is as iconic as his blockbuster movies, and it has a story of its own. In GQ's ranking, Cruise stood proudly at number one.

A youthful Tom Cruise was captured in Los Angeles, California in 1983 | Source: Getty Images

A youthful Tom Cruise was captured in Los Angeles, California in 1983 | Source: Getty Images

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His unconventional choices, from cult-like religions to couch-jumping antics, may have raised eyebrows. However, there's no denying that his smile is one of the most iconic in the industry. Whether it's in "Top Gun" or "Mission: Impossible," Cruise's grin has remained a constant.

Tom Cruise during the 8th Annual American Cinema Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, on January 12, 1991. | Source: Getty Images

Tom Cruise during the 8th Annual American Cinema Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, on January 12, 1991. | Source: Getty Images

Known for his attention to detail, he also cares about having a great smile. In 2018, an article by Arden Dental Care shed light on his commitment to maintaining an already much-adored smile. Cruise had slight crookedness in his two front teeth, but legend has it that his orthodontist had already sorted out the problem.

Tom Cruise made a memorable appearance at the photocall of "Top Gun: Maverick" during the 75th Annual Cannes Film Festival  in Cannes, France, on May 18, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Tom Cruise made a memorable appearance at the photocall of "Top Gun: Maverick" during the 75th Annual Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, on May 18, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

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What makes Cruise's smile even more endearing is his embrace of imperfection. His right front tooth, often referred to as his "middle tooth," is slightly askew, and he doesn't hide it. After all, it's part of what makes his smile uniquely his own. He got braces to address overbite and misalignment issues, proudly displaying them on the red carpet.

Tom Cruise was honored with the Mentors Program Leadership Award during a prestigious event at Pier 60, Chelsea Piers in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Tom Cruise was honored with the Mentors Program Leadership Award during a prestigious event at Pier 60, Chelsea Piers in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Cruise's smile may not be symmetrical, but it's undeniably him. Throughout his career, he's exuded confidence, embracing his status as a sex symbol. As he once said, "It doesn't bother me at all. I'm not tortured at night by it."

Tom Cruise made a memorable appearance on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" at Rockefeller Center on July 23, 2018, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Tom Cruise made a memorable appearance on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" at Rockefeller Center on July 23, 2018, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

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Tom Cruise attended the "Top Gun: Maverick" Royal Film Performance at Leicester Square on May 19, 2022, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Tom Cruise attended the "Top Gun: Maverick" Royal Film Performance at Leicester Square on May 19, 2022, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

And he's not the only one. His fans are also not tortured at night by Cruise's unique smile and have, in fact, always admired it. In April 2023, a fan's tweet captured it perfectly, "Always and Forever love Tom Cruise's smile. ;)"

Tom Cruise attended the "Jack Reacher: Never Go Back" press conference on November 7, 2016, in Seoul, South Korea. | Source: Getty Images

Tom Cruise attended the "Jack Reacher: Never Go Back" press conference on November 7, 2016, in Seoul, South Korea. | Source: Getty Images

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Other Hollywood Smiles Worth Mentioning

Of course, Clooney and Cruise aren't the only Hollywood stars with captivating smiles.

Tom Cruise attended an exclusive screening of "Mission: Impossible Rogue Nation" at BFI IMAX on July 25, 2015, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Tom Cruise attended an exclusive screening of "Mission: Impossible Rogue Nation" at BFI IMAX on July 25, 2015, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

GQ's list of top smiles includes names like Matthew McConaughey, Simon Baker, Jon Hamm, Kanye West, Harry Styles, Jimmy Fallon, Dwayne Johnson, and Matt Damon. Each of them has a smile that can light up the silver screen and leave audiences spellbound.

Matthew McConaughey attending the "Sahara" Los Angeles premiere at Grauman's Chinese Theater in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

Matthew McConaughey attending the "Sahara" Los Angeles premiere at Grauman's Chinese Theater in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

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Matthew McConaughey: His Texan grin can brighten anyone's day.

Simon Baker arrives for the "High Ground" premiere during the 70th Berlinale International Film Festival Berlin on February 23, 2020 in Berlin, Germany | Source: Getty Images

Simon Baker arrives for the "High Ground" premiere during the 70th Berlinale International Film Festival Berlin on February 23, 2020 in Berlin, Germany | Source: Getty Images

Simon Baker: From "Home and Away" to "The Mentalist," his smile has always been a charmer.

Jon Hamm attends the 2019 Vanity Fair Oscar Party  at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts on February 24, 2019 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

Jon Hamm attends the 2019 Vanity Fair Oscar Party at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts on February 24, 2019 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

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Jon Hamm: Don Draper's pearly whites seal deals and captivate audiences.

Kanye West at the 2019 FGI Night of Stars Gala on October 24, 2019, in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Kanye West at the 2019 FGI Night of Stars Gala on October 24, 2019, in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Kanye West: When Yeezy smiles, it's a rare and magical sight.

Harry Styles during the "Dunkirk" New York premiere on July 18, 2017, in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Harry Styles during the "Dunkirk" New York premiere on July 18, 2017, in New York City | Source: Getty Images

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Harry Styles: The teen heartthrob's cheeky grin has a dedicated following.

Jimmy Fallon on February 26, 2015 | Source: Getty Images

Jimmy Fallon on February 26, 2015 | Source: Getty Images

Jimmy Fallon: The host of "The Tonight Show" has a smile as brilliant as his humor.

Dwayne Johnson at the photocall for the film "Jumanji: Next Level" at Le Grand Rex on December 3, 2019, in Paris, France | Source: Getty Images

Dwayne Johnson at the photocall for the film "Jumanji: Next Level" at Le Grand Rex on December 3, 2019, in Paris, France | Source: Getty Images

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Dwayne Johnson: The Rock's real-life smile outshines his on-screen personas.

Matt Damon at the screening of "Stillwater" during the 74th Annual Cannes Film Festival on July 8, 2021, in Cannes, France | Source: Getty Images

Matt Damon at the screening of "Stillwater" during the 74th Annual Cannes Film Festival on July 8, 2021, in Cannes, France | Source: Getty Images

Matt Damon: Jason Bourne's genuine smile has won over hearts worldwide.

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