Not to start — but they're the one bit of gear genuinely worth getting reasonably right.
You can do your first few runs in whatever trainers you own to see if running's for you. But running puts repeated load through your feet, ankles and knees, and shoes that are worn out or wrong for you are a common source of niggles. You don't need the most expensive pair, a carbon plate, or anything a shop tries to upsell you. You need a comfortable pair of proper running shoes that fit.
If you can, go to a running shop and try a few on. Comfort is the thing that matters most — not the brand, the colour, or the tech on the box.