Glen Powell’s part in the 2022 hit Top Gun: Maverick marked a significant turning point in his career. The sequel to the iconic 1980s film saw Tom Cruise reprise his role as Maverick, while the story introduced Miles Teller’s character Rooster as the next generation’s hero. Amid the cast, Powell’s portrayal of Hangman brought a distinct energy that refreshed the movie’s dynamic. Initially, however, Powell hesitated to accept the role until Cruise personally persuaded him to reconsider, an intervention that ultimately helped save this pivotal film during the challenging post-COVID-19 box office recovery.
From Doubt to Commitment: How Powell Nearly Stepped Away
In a recent interview with GQ magazine reflecting on his career milestones, Powell explained how he almost passed on Top Gun: Maverick after missing out on the lead role of Rooster. Cementing his status in Hollywood hadn’t been straightforward, and disappointment made him question his involvement in the project. Tom Cruise, upon learning this, stepped in as a mentor and leader, encouraging Powell to rethink his decision by sharing insights about the film’s creative team and production approach. Cruise believed Powell hadn’t fully explored the opportunity from every perspective, urging him to evaluate the project more thoroughly before giving up on it.
“He was passing on the film without really looking at it and evaluating it from every angle—without gathering all the information on the process of how I approach making movies, my career, all the talented artists that were involved, and how the film is actually going to be made.”
—Tom Cruise, Actor
A Growing Bond Between Star and Protégé During Filming
Following Cruise’s encouragement, Powell remained with the film and built a strong professional relationship with the Hollywood legend that extends beyond the set. Their friendship has become a source of guidance for Powell, who often turns to Cruise for advice on his projects. The camaraderie between them also surfaced during the production with moments of humor, including Powell sharing an amusing story about an unusual health drink he brought to set. Cruise’s frank reaction revealed the playful dynamic between the two actors during long shooting days.
“Cruise gave me sh*t. Somebody was like, ‘Hey, do super coffee.’ So you put ashwagandha and reishi and Cordyceps and all these things in your coffee. So I blended it, mixed it up, put it in this kind of a mason jar and brought it to set. I’m flying that day, so I’m drinking this thing. But it’s all these ground-up mushrooms—it kind of looks like just this hearty, just disgusting…. He kind of looks at me for a second, he’s like: ‘You look like you’re drinking a stool sample. What is that?’ I was like, ‘Okay, this one, I took this too far.'”
—Glen Powell, Actor
Drawing Inspiration from Chris Pratt’s Approach to Leading Roles
Since emerging into the spotlight, Glen Powell has evolved into the leading man he aimed to become, starring in several notable productions. Navigating today’s unpredictable entertainment industry has required him to find his unique identity among Hollywood’s varied talents. Powell has cited Marvel star Chris Pratt’s success as motivation, highlighting how Pratt’s playful and lighthearted style, seen in Guardians of the Galaxy, influenced him to embrace a less brooding and darker persona. Powell believes this “flavor” he brings to roles fills a niche that many actors cannot replicate.
“I remember when Chris Pratt broke out in Guardians of the Galaxy. There’s no doubt it really helped—not being brooding or dark. Like, I’m not Christian Bale. Christian Bale has a gravitas and a weight, and Pattinson had his thing. And when Pratt kind of appeared on the scene where he was doing things that were a little more silly and buoyant, that’s where I feel most at home. And that’s where I feel like I had a gear that is a necessary flavor in terms of Hollywood, and not a gear that a lot of guys can play.”
—Glen Powell, Actor
The Impact of Cruise’s Support on Powell’s Career Trajectory
Tom Cruise’s guidance not only influenced Powell’s decision to join Top Gun: Maverick but also helped shape his approach in Hollywood’s competitive landscape. The mentorship sparked a lasting connection that continues to benefit Powell as he navigates new opportunities and challenges. This relationship exemplifies the importance of veteran actors supporting emerging talent, particularly in projects with the cultural weight and box office stakes of a film like Top Gun: Maverick.
Looking Ahead: Powell’s Ongoing Rise in Hollywood
Glen Powell’s experience with Top Gun: Maverick and his alliance with Tom Cruise represent crucial moments in his growing career. His willingness to embrace diverse roles, inspired by peers like Chris Pratt, underscores his adaptability in a shifting industry. As Powell leverages this momentum, audiences can expect to see him continue to build on the distinctive presence he has crafted, solidifying his place as one of Hollywood’s energetic leading men.
