The 53-year-old actor is known for his rugged good looks, and while they usually include a bit of salt and pepper stubble, Keanu has gone a whole lot further for the third instalment of his hit film franchise.

Keanu Reeves looked unrecognisable with straggly hair and bushy beard in Brooklyn, New YorkCredit: The Mega Agency

Sitting outside a studio in Brooklyn, New York on Thursday afternoon, Keanu wore a red cap over his long straggly hair.

On top of the bushy beard, Keanu wore a hoodie underneath a black coat, jeans and walking boots as he smoked a cigarette and drank a shake.

Sitting out of the sun, Keanu kept himself to himself as he chilled out on a chair, taking a break from training for the physically demanding role.

At one point, the Bill and Ted star took his shoes off to rest his feet.

Keanu is busy preparing for the third film in the John Wick franchiseCredit: The Mega Agency

The 53-year-old enjoyed a cigarette and a shake as he sat in the shadeCredit: The Mega Agency

Keanu first starred as titular character John, a retired hitman, in 2014, with the sequel dropping last year.

Both were critically-acclaimed and amassed a combined $260 million at the worldwide box office.

Earlier this year, Keanu revealed he regrets not sleeping with more adoring female fans.

The Canadian actor said that after starring in River’s Edge he would have knickers thrown at him – but did not often act on it.

The Matrix star said: “I probably should have taken more advantage but I didn’t.

“You know, I was a little self conscious about that. I mean I’m not saying it didn’t happen sometimes.”

He also admitted in the Esquire interview that he very nearly died in a motorbike accident.

Keanu usually sports a more groomed appearance with a shorter beardCredit: Rex Features

The star said he took a hairpin bend too fast and lay on the pavement for half an hour thinking he was going to die.

The accident left a thick scar up his abdomen and necessitated the removal of his spleen.

He also had surgery for fake teeth, veneers and some broken ribs.

Keanu was busy training for the physically demanding roleCredit: The Mega Agency

Reeves added: “You know, it’s weird. After the accidents the adrenaline kicks in, so it’s not really painful. Maybe the broken ribs part. That was pretty uncomfortable.”