Amanda Bynes, once a beloved Nickelodeon star, has resurfaced in Los Angeles with a bold, dramatic transformation. The 38-year-old actress, known for her roles in The Amanda Show and What a Girl Wants, turned heads with her new black hair during a casual walk down Hollywood Boulevard.
A Fresh Start with a New Hair Color for Amanda Bynes
On Tuesday, Bynes was seen enjoying the Southern California sun, unveiling her new look. Sporting long, sleek black hair, she looked a world away from her blonde days. Her bangs were pulled back, giving her an effortlessly chic look.
For the outing, she opted for comfort, pairing an oversized grey t-shirt with khaki shorts, finishing off her ensemble with black and white Vans and a floral crossbody purse. This simple yet stylish outfit echoed the sense of change Bynes seems to be embracing in her life.
Embracing Wigs After a Hair Dilemma
This appearance comes just months after Bynes announced a personal decision to start wearing wigs. In March, she explained that her natural hair was growing out awkwardly after a buzzcut. Leading to her decision to switch to wigs for versatility and confidence. “I’ve always loved experimenting with my look,” she shared, adding that this change made her feel more in control of her style after some difficult years.
Returning to School for a New Career
Beyond her public appearances, Amanda Bynes has been quietly reshaping her career path. In April, she revealed her decision to return to manicurist school after a failed attempt to obtain her license previously. “I realized I still have a passion for beauty, and this time I’m going to get it right,” Bynes stated with determination.
She explained that she was focusing on acrylics and manicurist theory to ensure she passes the board exam this time. “I want to have a stable job where I can use my creativity,” she added, highlighting her desire for consistency in her professional life.
Shifting Away from the Spotlight
This career pivot marked another significant decision: canceling her podcast with Paul Sieminski. Despite the first episode’s success, Bynes chose to prioritize her career as a manicurist. “I was surprised by the response to the podcast,” she admitted, “but after thinking it through, I’d rather follow a path where I know I can excel.” This decision reminds us of her desire to step away from the unpredictability of the entertainment world and focus on a more grounded profession.
Declining to Participate in Controversial Docuseries
Amid her reinvention, Amanda Bynes also made headlines for her decision not to participate in the explosive docuseries Quiet On Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV. The series delved into disturbing allegations of predatory behavior at Nickelodeon, including accusations from Bynes’ former co-star Raquel Lee Bolleau. Despite the serious content, Bynes has remained silent. Sources close to her explained she’s grateful for her time at Nickelodeon and felt she had nothing to contribute to the series.
The Fallout from the Docuseries
In the docuseries, Bolleau recalled a negative interaction with Bynes. She accused her of spitting in her face on multiple occasions during the filming of The Amanda Show. “It was a frustrating experience,” Bolleau stated, “but I’ve moved past it.”
Meanwhile, Dan Schneider, the show’s creator, faced his own wave of criticism following accusations of toxic behavior. Schneider has since publicly expressed regret for his actions. He acknowledged that some of his past behaviors were “embarrassing” and that he owed several people apologies. He has also launched a defamation lawsuit against the producers of Quiet On Set.
Amanda Bynes Today: Moving Forward
While her Hollywood career has taken a backseat to her personal goals, Amanda Bynes seems determined to move forward on her own terms. Her new look, career ambitions, and avoidance of the drama surrounding the Nickelodeon docuseries suggest that Bynes is focusing on a fresh chapter in her life.
One where she holds the reins of her future. Whether she’s stepping out for a walk or preparing for her new career in beauty, Amanda Bynes is embracing change. And in that process, leaving behind the controversies of her past.