Glen Powell Is Unrecognizable in Hilarious ‘Chad Powers’ Trailer

The world of college football is no stranger to stories of redemption, but few are as unconventional—or as hilarious—as the tale of Chen Powell’s latest transformation. In the upcoming Hulu comedy series Chad Powers, Powell trades fighter jets and hitman disguises for a prosthetic nose and a shot at gridiron glory. The recently released trailer, debuted during ESPN’s College GameDay, introduces audiences to Russ Holliday, a disgraced quarterback who attempts to revive his career by going undercover as the eccentric Chad Powers. For Powell, this role represents not just another charismatic performance but a deeper exploration of identity, ambition, and the lengths we go to for a second chance.

From ‘Hangman’ to Hollywood’s Comedy MVP

Glen Powell’s career has been a masterclass in strategic versatility. After stealing scenes as the cocky pilot Hangman in Top Gun: Maverick and showcasing his romantic-comedy chops in Anyone but You, Powell has solidified his status as a leading man with range. However, Chad Powers allows him to flex new muscles—both literally and figuratively. As Russ Holliday, Powell portrays a quarterback whose career implodes after a catastrophic showboating incident during a championship game. Eight years later, Holliday sees an opportunity for redemption when South Georgia’s football team holds open tryouts. The catch? He must disguise himself as the unassuming—and oddly prosthetic-enhanced—Chad Powers.

Powell’s portrayal is a nod to classic transformation comedies like Mrs. Doubtfire and Tootsie, but with a distinctly modern twist. As he explained in an interview, the goal was to “Tootsie this thing” and explore how far a lie can be stretched before it snaps. The result is a character that is equal parts absurd and endearing—a testament to Powell’s ability to balance comedy with heart.

The Origin Story: Eli Manning’s Viral Sketch Comes to Life

Chad Powers owes its existence to an unlikely source: former NFL quarterback Eli Manning. In a 2022 episode of ESPN’s Eli’s Places, Manning disguised himself in prosthetics and a wig to attend Penn State’s open tryouts under the alias Chad Powers. The segment went viral, capturing the imagination of fans and filmmakers alike. Powell and co-creator Michael Waldron (Heels) saw potential in the premise, expanding it into a six-episode series that delves into the psychology of redemption and the world of college football.

Manning serves as an executive producer alongside his brother Peyton Manning, blending athletic credibility with comedic storytelling. The series promises to appeal not only to sports enthusiasts but also to viewers who appreciate character-driven humor and underdog narratives.

Behind the Mask: Powell’s Physical and Comedic Transformation

One of the most striking aspects of the Chad Powers trailer is Powell’s physical transformation. With prosthetic teeth, a receding hairline, and a demeanor that screams “underdog,” Powell disappears into the role of Chad Powers. This commitment to character is reminiscent of his performance in Hit Man, where he played a professor posing as a contract killer. However, Chad Powers leans harder into comedy, using the disguise as a vehicle for both slapstick and situational humor.

The trailer highlights Chad’s awkward yet determined attempts to blend into the team, from botched drills to locker-room mishaps. Yet, beneath the laughs, there’s a poignant commentary on identity and self-worth. Russ Holliday isn’t just running from his past; he’s trying to reclaim the potential he squandered.

Table: Glen Powell’s Career Evolution Leading to Chad Powers

The Creative Team: A Powerhouse Lineup

Chad Powers boasts a formidable creative team. Powell and Michael Waldron co-wrote the pilot, with Waldron also serving as executive producer. Tony Yacenda (American Vandal) directs, bringing his signature blend of satire and authenticity to the series. The supporting cast includes Steve Zahn as Coach Jake Hudson, Perry Mattfeld as Ricky, and Frankie A. Rodriguez as Danny, adding depth and humor to the world of South Georgia football.

The involvement of ESPN and Omaha Productions (founded by Peyton Manning) ensures that the series remains grounded in the culture and politics of college football. From locker-room dynamics to the pressures of performance, Chad Powers promises to deliver a nuanced yet entertaining portrayal of the sport.

Why ‘Chad Powers’ Matters: Redemption in the Age of Social Media

At its core, Chad Powers is a story about redemption—a theme that resonates deeply in today’s cancel culture era. Russ Holliday’s mistake isn’t just a personal failure; it’s a public spectacle, immortalized in viral videos and meme. His decision to reinvent himself as Chad Powers is a desperate attempt to escape the shadow of his past and prove that he’s more than a single moment of weakness.

For Glen Powell, this role is also a form of creative redemption. After establishing himself as an action star and romantic lead, Chad Powers allows him to return to his comedic roots while exploring new narrative territory. The series blends physical comedy with emotional depth, much like Powell’s earlier work in Set It Up and Everybody Wants Some!!.

Conclusion: A Must-Watch for Sports and Comedy Fans

Chad Powers is poised to be one of the most unique series of the year—a comedy that combines the heart of an underdog story with the hilarity of a disguise caper. For Glen Powell, it represents another step in his evolution as a leading man and storyteller. As both star and co-creator, he has embraced the challenge of bringing Chad Powers to life with charisma and authenticity.

The series premiered on Hulu on September 30, 2025, with two episodes dropping immediately and subsequent episodes released weekly. Whether you’re a football fan, a comedy enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a good redemption arc, Chad Powers is worth adding to your watchlist.

What do you think of Glen Powell’s transformation into Chad Powers? Will you be tuning in when the series drops on Hulu? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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