Glen Powell recently shared details about his audition journey for the popular Fox musical series Glee, revealing how he narrowly missed landing the role of Sam Evans in a close competition with his close friend. The 36-year-old actor opened up about this experience during an interview that highlighted his emotional and intense pursuit of acting opportunities.
The Competitive Audition for a Defining Role
During an episode of Jake Shane’s Therapuss podcast, Glen Powell disclosed that he auditioned for the character Sam Evans on Glee. He and his friend Chord Overstreet were both contenders for the role, which was initially not known as “Trouty Mouth,” the nickname that later became associated with the character. Both actors were present together during the final stages, creating a unique and somewhat tense dynamic.
One of my best buddies in the world is a guy, Chord Overstreet and Chord was on the show Glee,
Glen explained.
So like, we both auditioned for Glee. We both auditioned for the same role… Sam Evans… but it wasn’t ‘Trouty Mouth’ at the time. So, it turned into ‘Trouty Mouth’ with Chord.
Glen Powell, Actor
But we were both in the waiting room at the same time because we were buddies. We met in acting class. We were like pals for a really long time, you know, like, we were close,
he added.
And then we were down to the wire on Sam Evans, and he got it. But like, he’s still one of my best friends. And we were about to be roommates, so we moved in together as he went on this like crazy Glee ride, which was like, kind of wild to be, one of your best friends in the world, to be like, to watch him kind of go through that thing.
Glen Powell, Actor
It was pretty crazy to be around, because it was also like the biggest show in the world. I don’t think a lot of people remember that.
Glen Powell, Actor
Audition Details and Other Career Pursuits
Pivotal to the audition was the song “Billionaire” by Travie McCoy, which Chord Overstreet later performed on the show, underscoring the competition’s intense nature. Beyond Glee, Glen Powell also revealed attempting roles on other notable projects. He auditioned for JD McCoy and Tim Riggins in Friday Night Lights, roles that went to Jeremy Sumpter and Taylor Kitsch. He also pursued the role of Luke Collins in The Longest Ride, ultimately cast to Scott Eastwood, and tried out for the character Peter in Divergent, a role that Miles Teller secured.
Following the Glee experience, Glen Powell worked with Ryan Murphy again, starring in the series Scream Queens. The two are now collaborating on a forthcoming Broadway musical, reflecting ongoing fruitful partnerships.
Significance of Glen Powell’s Audition Experience
Glen Powell’s story highlights the emotional highs and lows actors endure when auditioning for major roles, especially when competing alongside close friends. His willingness to openly discuss turning points in his career, including the narrow loss of Sam Evans, captures the intense personal and professional challenges that shaped his journey. With new projects underway, Glen continues to build on relationships formed early in his career, offering fans a glimpse of hope and resilience in the entertainment industry.
