Glen Powell is set to headline a new comedy film, joining forces with Judd Apatow for a fresh project that fuses country and comedy. Following a notable weekend featuring a standout Saturday Night Live appearance, the Texas-born actor is bringing his talent to a script he co-wrote with Apatow, reflecting a creative leap in his career.
Glen Powell Steps Forward After SNL Success
This weekend proved eventful for Glen Powell. Amidst chatter from analysts who were quick to call his latest remake of The Running Man a disappointment, Powell’s energetic performance on Saturday Night Live drew significant praise. He captivated audiences with his singing, dancing, and numerous costume changes, giving viewers a show reminiscent of his comedic style on Chad Powers.
Building on this momentum, Powell is channeling the skills highlighted on the SNL stage into a new film project. This collaboration marks a unique turn in his career as he links with one of Hollywood’s most recognized comedic filmmakers.
An Experienced Comedy Duo: Powell and Apatow Collaborate
The 37-year-old Glen Powell will partner with Judd Apatow, whose name has become synonymous with contemporary American comedy. Apatow’s directorial career began with the widely acclaimed The 40-Year-Old Virgin in 2005, followed by hits like Knocked Up, This Is 40, Trainwreck, and The King of Staten Island. Before achieving fame in films, Apatow contributed to television successes such as Freaks and Geeks and Undeclared.
As a producer, Apatow’s involvement has extended to comedy classics including Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy, Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, Bridesmaids, and Superbad, making his impact on the genre unmistakable. He is also known for his work blending music and comedy, notably as co-writer and producer of the country music biopic parody Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story.
Details on the New Country Comedy
Specifics about the storyline for Glen Powell’s new comedy film with Apatow are still under wraps. It remains uncertain whether the movie will follow the observational humor route of Trainwreck or embrace the parody style seen in Walk Hard. What is known is that Powell and Apatow have jointly written the script, and audiences can expect Powell to showcase his singing abilities in the film—an aspect that both excites and unnerves the actor.
“I’ve always been so nervous to sing,”
Glen Powell said.
“I was obsessed with Elvis as a kid. And my little sister used to sell Girl Scout cookies, and there was a honeysuckle bush next to our house. And for everyone that bought one of her cookies, I gave them an Elvis song. But I couldn’t sing in front of them, so I hid behind the honeysuckle bush and sang.”
– Glen Powell, Actor
This insight into Powell’s past reveals a personal connection to music that may resonate in his upcoming performance. The opportunity not only reunites him with comedic roots but also challenges him to step outside his comfort zone, promising a blend of heart and humor inspired by the creative vision of Judd Apatow.
What This Means for Powell and Comedy Fans
The partnership between Glen Powell and Judd Apatow signals a notable moment for both talents and fans of contemporary comedy. The film, still in development, hints at blending country sensibility with the sharp, emotionally layered humor that defines Apatow’s work. With Powell’s momentum from recent entertainment successes, including Top Gun: Maverick and Saturday Night Live, this new role spotlights a dynamic period in his career.
As more details about the cast, musical elements, and filming location emerge, audiences will be watching for how the collaboration continues to evolve. For now, anticipation is high for the project’s arrival, promising a unique addition to the landscape of comedic cinema.
