Glen Powell Transforms For “Chad Powers” Comedy Series
Production has officially begun on Hulu’s highly anticipated comedy series “Chad Powers,” with the streaming platform releasing a first look at star Glen Powell’s remarkable transformation into the titular character—a disgraced quarterback who disguises himself to revive his football career.
The series, inspired by former NFL quarterback Eli Manning’s viral sketch character, shows Powell in a nearly unrecognizable makeover complete with shaggy hair, prominent freckles, and a wispy mustache.
From Viral Prank to Full Series
The character of Chad Powers originated from a popular sketch where Eli Manning went undercover as a walk-on tryout at Penn State, donning prosthetics and a wig to disguise himself as the enthusiastic but unpolished Powers. The viral segment, which aired on ESPN+ as part of Manning’s “Eli’s Places” series, garnered millions of views and became an instant hit with football fans.
Now Powell and co-creator Michael Waldron have expanded the concept into a full comedy series. According to the official description, the show follows Russ Holliday (Powell), “a hotshot QB whose college career is nuked by bad behavior,” who then “disguises himself and walks onto a struggling Southern football team as the talented, affable Chad Powers.”
“The love for Chad Powers has surprised me in spectacular ways,” Eli Manning said in a statement about the project, according to IMDB News. “I’m so excited to team up with my friends Glen Powell, Michael Waldron and Omaha Productions to continue to tell the Chad Powers story.”
Star-Studded Cast and Production Team
In addition to Powell in the lead role, the series features an impressive supporting cast including Steve Zahn, Toby Huss, Perry Mattfeld, Clayne Crawford, Wynn Everett, Frankie A. Rodriguez, Colton Ryan, Keese Wilson, Xavier Mills, and Quentin Plair.
The project brings together significant talent behind the camera as well. Powell, who recently starred in blockbusters “Top Gun: Maverick” and “Twisters,” co-created the series with Michael Waldron, known for his work on Marvel’s “Loki” and “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.” The duo co-wrote the pilot episode, with Tony Yacenda set to direct.
Executive producers include both Eli and Peyton Manning through their Omaha Productions, along with Jamie Horowitz, Ben Brown, and representatives from ESPN, as reported by IMDB.
Powell’s Career Trajectory
The “Chad Powers” series represents another significant step in Powell’s ascending Hollywood career. After breaking through with roles in “Top Gun: Maverick” and romantic comedies like “Set It Up” and “Anyone But You,” Powell has been strategically diversifying his portfolio with projects that showcase his range.
His involvement as both star and creative force behind “Chad Powers” demonstrates his expanding influence in the industry. According to his Wikipedia page, Powell is also set to star in several upcoming high-profile projects, including the thriller “Huntington” and an adaptation of Stephen King’s novel “The Running Man” directed by Edgar Wright.
The actor’s ability to physically transform for roles has become a notable aspect of his career, with his Chad Powers look drawing comparisons to a blend of Tom Cruise, Owen Wilson, and Adam Sandler, completely altering his typically recognizable appearance.
Anticipated Release and Impact
While no official premiere date has been announced, the series is expected to debut on Hulu in 2025. The timing aligns with the growing popularity of sports comedies and follows recent successful entries in the genre like “Ted Lasso” and “Shoresy.”
The show’s premise of a star athlete going incognito to rebuild his career touches on themes of redemption and reinvention, while promising plenty of fish-out-of-water comedy as Powers attempts to maintain his elaborate disguise.
With its combination of football culture, star power, and the involvement of NFL legends Eli and Peyton Manning, “Chad Powers” is positioned to appeal to both sports fans and comedy audiences when it arrives on the streaming platform.
