I'm on the 5th episode, 1st season. Please tell me he shaves that freaking thing...
Aside from a couple of quick flashback scenes in series 2, nope. Neckbeard all the way. The young'uns love it. I can't stand it.
Back in the days when I would sometimes grow a beard, my wife would implore me, "at least shave your neck". The neck should always be shaved.