The Lincoln Lawyer returns in season three trailer
Angus Sampson, the actor known for playing Cisco in The Lincoln Lawyer, was almost unrecognisable from his early career days compared to his current rugged biker look.
The third season of The Lincoln Lawyer recently premiered on Netflix, continuing the story of Mickey Haller (portrayed by Manuel Garcia-Rulfo) as he defends Lisa Trammell (played by Lana Parrilla), who stands accused of murder.
As usual, Mickey's team is there to support him outside the courtroom in securing a win, including private investigator Cisco Wojciechowski (played by Angus Sampson).
Sampson's character also has a personal connection to Mickey, having married Mickey's second wife Lorna Crane (Becki Newton) in the show's second season.
With the drama's return being well-received by subscribers, fans have been taking a closer look at the actors off-screen, with many surprised by Sampson's transformation.
In the popular Netflix series, the 45-year-old Australian actor and filmmaker sports a distinctive look with his leather biker jacket, long unkempt hair and full beard.
However, images have emerged from the early stages of Sampson's career showing a stark contrast in appearance.
Attending the opening night of the 20th St Kilda Film Festival in 2003, Sampson sported noticeably shorter and curlier hair under a bucket hat, with only a hint of stubble instead of his now-signature beard.
The star underwent a remarkable transformation when snapped at the Melbourne International Film Festival a couple of years on, sporting an even shorter and straighter hairstyle, donning a pin-striped suit, and accompanied by a former flame.
The Netflix series based on Michael Connelly's books may be fictional but some of the characters are loosely inspired by real people.
Sampson spoke about meeting his real-life Cisco counterpart, telling the Boston Herald: "He was very complimentary and kind as to my performance portraying him. But I must admit I was a little embarrassed that he was there.
"I was like, I hope he doesn't think I'm not doing a service."
Concluding with a candid observation, he remarked: "I think I'm a good seven or eight inches taller and I'm about three times as wide."
The Lincoln Lawyer is available to watch on Netflix.
