STERLING, Ill. — Wahl has awarded Jonathan Brannan of Ocean Springs, Miss., the grand prize in its first-ever ‘Most Talented Beard in America’ contest.

Jonathan Brannan from Ocean Springs, Miss., can carry a tune, drop a dad joke — and sport a sweet beard. It’s his range of talents, along with a knack for balancing family and fun, that earned him the title of Wahl Man of the Year and $20,000 in Wahl’s Most Talented Beard in America contest. He plans to use his prize money to adopt a baby this spring.

Wahl, which is celebrating its 101st anniversary this year, launched the contest as a way to spread positivity and celebrate bearded men. In September the company put out the call for men with beards to submit a video of themselves performing a talent. Hundreds of men responded, 10 finalists were chosen, and public votes determined the top 3 winners.

Jonathan Brannan from Ocean Springs, Miss., can carry a tune, drop a dad joke — and sport a sweet beard. It’s his range of talents, along with a knack for balancing family and fun, that earned him the title of Wahl Man of the Year and $20,000 in Wahl’s Most Talented Beard in America contest. He plans to use his prize money to adopt a baby this spring.

In addition to bringing home $20,000, as the grand prize winner Brannan also earns beard bragging rights with the new title of ‘Wahl Man of the Year.’ It’s a title Brannan didn’t foresee; while a lifelong fan of beards, he faced some facial hair hurdles. By the time he got to an age where he could actually grow a beard, he was also starting his career as a TV reporter, and it wasn’t allowed. However, once he left the TV biz, both Brannan and his beard flourished. He’s now the development director for the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and enjoys life with his wife and 6-year-old daughter. The family of three is excitedly anticipating the addition of a baby boy they will adopt in April 2021.“It’s kind of every man’s dream to be recognized for his beard, and the story behind this recognition is wild,” said Brannan. “It blows my mind, to be honest. Just the fact that I found out about the contest literally the day before the entry deadline is crazy enough, but then the rest of the story, including our adoption needs makes winning this even sweeter.”

Second place winner Benjamin Taylor of Glenwood, Md., who is deaf, is a biologist who truly loves the outdoors. But he’s also a multi-talented sleight-of-hand magician, fire artist and comedian. Taylor’s video submission shows off his beard and skills, while explaining them through sign-language. He takes home $10,000, and plans to donate some of his winnings to an organization that provides resources to families with deaf children.

Third place winner Cliff Prowse of Little Rock, Ark., and his wife are a musical duo who help organize the Yadaloo Music & Arts Festival. Affectionately known as the “Bearded Fiddler,” he’s a musical producer, composer and instrumentalist. His video entry showcases his multi-instrumental talent as well as his beard. His $5,000 prize is more than welcome during a time when, like many musicians his ability to perform has been hindered.