Alan Fletcher (Karl) is wearing a hat in Neighbours because he has been diagnosed with alopecia areata.
Alan made the announcement to fans on Neighbours’ social media accounts following media reports investigating his health.
Fletcher explained that “a lot of fans have expressed little concern about health on the internet and there have been some media inquiries as well, so I just wanted to put something to rest. I’m absolutely fine and well working in Neighbours. But I can report to you that I do have a disorder called alopecia areata”.
Fletcher continued to explain that he started losing hair in his beard and then on his scalp in patches hence he shaved off his beard. Later, on his head, his hair became patchy as well and he had to get rid of most of it.