The world of sports comedy takes a wild turn with the arrival of 'Chad Powers' on Hulu. This highly anticipated series brings actor Glen Powell into the spotlight, playing a disguised football star ready for a comeback. Here's your complete guide to what makes 'Chad Powers' one of this year's must-watch shows.
'Chad Powers' is not your average football show. Glen Powell transforms into Russ Holliday—a once-famous quarterback whose reckless behavior ends his college football dreams. In a bold move, he reinvents himself by adopting the new persona, Chad Powers, to secretly join a struggling Southern football team. This blend of sports and comedy is adapted from a viral sketch created by Super Bowl-winning quarterback Eli Manning.
The original Eli Manning sketch, produced for ESPN+, captured fans’ imaginations by showing Manning in disguise during college tryouts. The success of the bit paved the way for this new series, with both Eli and Peyton Manning serving as executive producers. For an in-depth look at its origins, check out The A.V. Club's breakdown of Chad Powers' official kickoff.
Hulu has slated 'Chad Powers' for a September 30th release, giving football fans comedy gold just as the new season kicks off. The first two episodes will drop together, with new episodes arriving every Tuesday. Glen Powell not only stars but also co-created and co-wrote the series, working alongside Michael Waldron (known for "Loki") and Tony Yacenda, director of "American Vandal."
The supporting cast features Perry Mattfeld as Ricky, Quentin Plair as Coach Byrd, Wynn Everett as Tricia, Frankie A. Rodriguez as Danny, and Steve Zahn as Jake Hudson. If you want more information about the cast and production, don't miss Variety's announcement of the show and release date.
What sets 'Chad Powers' apart is its unique blend of heart, humor, and sports action. With a lead character wearing fake facial features and diving into collegiate football chaos, the show doesn’t take itself too seriously. Yet, it delivers on both laughs and emotional beats. The creative team’s pedigree and the viral popularity of Eli Manning’s original skit give it instant pop culture credibility. For more scheduling news and what to expect from the premiere, read Deadline's coverage of 'Chad Powers' Hulu debut.
If you’re a fan of sports, sharp comedy, or just want to see Glen Powell pull off a hilarious transformation, 'Chad Powers' deserves a spot on your watchlist. The series delivers both athletic excitement and plenty of laughs, all wrapped in an underdog redemption story. Catch the premiere on Hulu this September, and get ready to meet the most unpredictable quarterback on TV.