Chad Powers is a half-hour Hulu original sports comedy series, co-created by Glen Powell and Michael Waldron, with Powell also starring in the lead role. Inspired by a viral ESPN+ segment featuring Eli Manning, the show delivers a hilarious and heartfelt underdog story about second chances, deception, and the wild world of college football.
What is the series ‘Chad Powers’ about?: Plot Details
The series centers on Russ Holliday (Glen Powell), a hotshot college quarterback whose career implodes after an unforgettable mistake during a championship game. Eight years later and desperate to recapture his dreams, Russ gets inspired by “Mrs. Doubtfire” and dons a full disguise—reinventing himself as “Chad Powers” to walk on to a floundering Southern college football team. Facing skeptical coaches, new teammates, and the challenge of living a double life, Russ-as-Chad must prove not only his skills on the field but also that he’s changed as a person. The series balances sharp humor, absurd scenarios, and heartfelt sports drama, exploring what it really takes to get a fresh start.
Cast
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Glen Powell as Russ Holliday / Chad Powers, the fallen star quarterback seeking redemption
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Steve Zahn as Jake Hudson, the tough but fair head coach
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Perry Mattfeld as Ricky, a key supporting character
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Quentin Plair as Coach Byrd
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Wynn Everett as Tricia
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Frankie A. Rodriguez as Danny
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Toby Huss as Mike Holliday
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Clayne Crawford, Colton Ryan, Wynn Everett, Xavier Mills, and Quentin Plair in recurring roles
The ensemble features both new and veteran TV talent, building a vibrant world around Glen Powell’s double life as Chad.
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Production
Created by Glen Powell and Michael Waldron, Chad Powers is inspired by Eli Manning’s memorable ESPN segment, where he went undercover at Penn State tryouts. Executive producers include Eli and Peyton Manning (Omaha Productions), Jamie Horowitz, Ben Brown, ESPN, and director Tony Yacenda. Filming began in Atlanta, Georgia, in late 2024. Natalie Holt composed the score, with Patrick Tuck editing the series. The show was given a series order by Hulu in early 2024 and is produced by 20th Television and Barnstorm Productions.
Release Date
Chad Powers will premiere on Hulu (and Hulu on Disney+) on September 30, 2025. The first two episodes will be released at launch, with new episodes dropping weekly each Tuesday for the following four weeks.
Trailer
The official trailer introduces viewers to the comically awkward transformation of Russ into Chad, quick-footed on the field but hilariously out of step off it. Glen Powell’s comedic chops and physical transformation are on full display, with Steve Zahn’s coach providing both suspicion and tough love. Sports action, identity mayhem, and heartfelt moments are promised in equal measure. The trailer premiered on ESPN’s College GameDay and is available to watch on Hulu’s and Disney’s official channels.
Where to Watch?
Chad Powers streams exclusively on Hulu in the U.S., with additional availability via Hulu on Disney+. International release plans are expected to be announced soon, likely expanding access beyond North America after the initial roll-out.
Chad Powers offers the sports comedy redemption story of the fall TV season, blending sharp writing, charming performances, and a uniquely American love of football. Mark September 30, 2025, for kickoff!
