Kmflett's Blog

Beard Liberation Front

4th April

Contact BLF Organiser Keith Flett @keithbeard.bsky.social

Mark Chapman shaves Michael Rosen to win Beard of Spring vote

The Beard Liberation Front, the informal network of beard wearers, has said that broadcaster Mark Chapman has shaved author Michael Rosen to win the vote for the coveted title of Beard of Spring 2026.

It was one of the closest votes of recent years, held on Blue Sky and Twitter with Mark Chapman just shaving Michael Rosen and Michael Sheen.

The list comprised a range of people who have worn a beard during the first quarter of the year, not necessarily full-time, and whose facial hair has had a positive public impact.

BLF Organiser Keith Flett said, it’s a first time win for Mark Chapman reflecting the reality that his beard is omnipresent in sports broadcasting across a number of platforms

There were two Close Shave Rounds with the highest and second placed from both going to a Final Beard Off vote.  The winner will be announced on Easter Saturday.

Michael Rosen, author through to the Beard Off Final

Michael Sheen, actor through to Beard Off Final

Joe Wilkinson, comedian

Emmanuel Gregoire, Mayor of Paris

Zack Polanski, politician 

Mark Chapman, broadcaster through to Beard Off Final

Steve Bell, cartoonist

Pearce Quigley, actor through to Beard Off Final