Glen Powell believes Chris Pratt changed the rules for modern Hollywood. In a new GQ cover story, Powell credited Pratt’s Guardians of the Galaxy breakout with proving that leading men don’t always have to be dark and brooding. Instead, they can be funny, buoyant, and relatable while still headlining blockbuster films.
For Powell, who once struggled to land roles in an industry that favored actors like Christian Bale and Robert Pattinson, Pratt’s rise showed a different path. “Chris Pratt made silliness and charm just as valuable as seriousness,” Powell said.
Glen Powell on Finding His Own Lane
Powell admitted that the Glen Powell Chris Pratt shift in Hollywood opened doors for him. After smaller roles in the early 2010s, Powell broke out with hits like Anyone But You and Twisters. Now, he’s taking on his first full-fledged action lead in Edgar Wright’s The Running Man, hitting theaters this November.
Mentorship from Tom Cruise
To prepare for the physically demanding role, Powell leaned on guidance from Tom Cruise, his Top Gun: Maverick co-star. “Tom told me to treat acting like a physical job,” Powell explained. He trained hard, adding functional muscle to move and fight like a real action star.
Of course, Cruise kept things light, too. Powell recalled bringing mushroom-infused coffee to set, only for Cruise to quip, “You look like you’re drinking a stool sample.” Powell laughed it off, realizing he might have gone too far with wellness drinks.
Why Chris Pratt’s Impact Matters
The Glen Powell Chris Pratt connection highlights how Hollywood’s definition of a leading man has shifted. Pratt proved that humor and relatability can carry a blockbuster, paving the way for actors like Powell to thrive without forcing themselves into a brooding archetype.
