She’s the Australian guitar sensation who once lit up the stage alongside icons like Prince and Michael Jackson — but in her latest photos, Orianthi is nearly unrecognisable from her early rocker image.
The Adelaide-born musician, who celebrated her 40th birthday in January, surprised fans on social media with a series of striking new images showcasing a more glamorous transformation.
In one standout shot, the According To You star posed with an electric guitar while donning a white blazer dress with a plunging neckline, paired with thigh-high boots. Set against a softly lit purple backdrop, Orianthi radiated confidence and elegance.
Best known for her signature edgy rock style — bold eyeliner, tousled hair, and laid-back stagewear — Orianthi’s new look features glowing skin, voluminous lips, and polished, styled hair. Though she now embraces a more refined aesthetic, she still flashes her iconic cheeky grin and rocks the aviator sunglasses that defined her early 2000s image.
Currently on tour across the U.S. and Europe, Orianthi continues to impress audiences with her dynamic performances, sharing recent concert highlights with her followers.
Her rise to global recognition began in 2009 when she delivered a blistering guitar solo during a Grammy Awards performance with Carrie Underwood. She gained further acclaim after being selected as lead guitarist for Michael Jackson’s This Is It tour — a series tragically cancelled due to Jackson’s death.
Over the years, Orianthi has released five studio albums, the latest being Rock Candy in 2022.
On the personal front, Orianthi previously shared a four-year relationship with Bon Jovi legend Richie Sambora. Although their romantic connection ended in 2018, the pair emphasized that their musical collaboration would continue.
Despite their 26-year age difference, the duo — collectively known as RSO — enjoyed a strong creative partnership. Their joint album Radio Free America debuted in May 2018, and the pair issued a joint statement expressing gratitude to fans:
“Thank you to all our fans who have bought the new RSO record and attended our shows. We love and appreciate you all.”
They also clarified their temporary separation:
“We love and support each other but are taking the summer off to focus on family and other endeavours. We will regroup in the near future with our music. Peace and love to you all and thank you for your continued support.”
Richie once praised Orianthi for her exceptional depth and talent at such a young age, recalling how they instantly clicked both romantically and musically after meeting through Alice Cooper.
“There was no hesitation with anything. We dove right in,” he told Guitar World in 2017.
Orianthi added that their bond was strengthened by their mutual love of guitar:
“We share a language, and we have so much respect for each other. That makes everything easier.”
Now, as Orianthi continues her global tour, fans old and new are reminded that while her look may have evolved, her passion and prowess as a guitar legend remain as fierce as ever.
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