Glen Powell takes on a daring new role in the first teaser for Hulu’s upcoming comedy series Chad Powers. The actor, known for his role in Anyone But You, stars as Russ Holliday, a disgraced quarterback who reinvents himself as the fictional “Chad Powers” in a bid to restart his football career.
In the teaser, Powell, sporting a wig and a complete disguise, makes his way onto a struggling college football team in the South after a series of bad decisions sabotage his collegiate future. “I got something coming up,” Powell’s character says cryptically in the brief footage, hinting at his undercover journey. “Something kind of big.”
Based on a segment from ESPN+’s Eli’s Places, the series expands on a real-life stunt by former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, who went undercover as Chad Powers during a walk-on tryout at Penn State. Powell not only stars in the show but also serves as co-creator and executive producer, working alongside Loki’s Michael Waldron.
The teaser, which provides the first glimpse of the series, follows a two-minute preview released in November of Hulu and Disney+’s upcoming slate. The comedic project is also produced by Eli and Peyton Manning, with Powell and Waldron offering a joint statement upon the series’ February announcement.
“We’re both diehard college football fans,” the duo shared. “When we saw Eli as Chad Powers, we knew that was the way into a big, fun story about this world. We’re excited to be part of this team, and can’t wait to get Chad in the game. Think fast, run fast.”
Powell, who opened up about the role in a May cover story for The Hollywood Reporter, called his portrayal of Chad Powers one of his most challenging performances to date. “He’s like the worst dude on the planet who puts on the mask of the most genial southern guy you’ve ever seen,” Powell teased, offering a glimpse into the complexities of his character.
Chad Powers is poised to bring humor and heart to the world of college football, blending absurdity with the charm of an unlikely hero. The series is set to premiere on Hulu later this year.
