out of character

out of character

1. Very unlike the way someone would normally speak or behave; uncharacteristic. That outburst was certainly out of character. Tom is usually very happy and laid back. I had no idea her grades were getting so low—that's so out of character for Jane.
2. Inconsistent with the traits or characteristics assigned to the character that one plays, as in a film or play. She is a consummate professional. She didn't even go out of character when a part of the set collapsed halfway through the scene. You're playing an 18th-century princess—saying "totally awesome" is a bit out of character, don't you think?
See also: character, of, out
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

out of character

 
1. unlike one's usual behavior. Ann's remark was quite out of character. It was out of character for Ann to act so stubborn.
2. inappropriate for the character that an actor is playing. Bill went out of character when the audience started giggling. Bill played the part so well that it was hard for him to get out of character after the performance.
See also: character, of, out
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.

ˌin/ˌout of ˈcharacter

(of somebody’s behaviour, etc.) of the kind you would/would not expect from them; characteristic/uncharacteristic: That unpleasant remark she made was quite out of character. ‘I’m sure it was Bill I saw from the bus. He was arguing with a police officer.’ ‘Well, that’s in character, anyway!’
See also: character, of, out
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

out of character

Inconsistent with someone's general character or behavior: a response so much out of character that it amazed me.
See also: character, of, out
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
See also:
  • on a pedestal, put
  • place (someone or something) (up) on a pedestal
  • put (someone or something) (up) on a pedestal
  • censure
  • censure (one)
  • censure (one) for (something)
  • love begets love
  • love breeds love
  • hate breeds hate
  • beget