'Dude no joke looks like Hugh Jackman now': The internet is swooning over Gabe Newell's svelte new look at The International
Newell's video message welcoming everyone to this year's Dota 2 championship tourney caught a lot of viewers by surprise.
Valve co-founder Gabe Newell made a video to open The International 2026 Dota 2 championship tournament, and fans were taken aback by his fresh appearance. While the competition itself generated excitement, many were particularly impressed with Newell's new look. In his video, Newell reminisced about past events, looked forward to the future, and expressed gratitude to fans, players, and the host city of Shanghai.
However, it was his svelte new appearance that truly caught the attention of the internet. Netizens praised Newell's transformation, with some comparing him to Hugh Jackman and even joking that he might be evolving into a genetic Australian. Others simply expressed relief that Newell was looking healthy and happy, hoping for more years with him in the world.
Despite the unusual adoration given to a billionaire, Newell's success in avoiding the pitfalls that often come with immense wealth and then pursuing a relatively harmless passion has been appreciated by some.
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