What began as Eli Manning's viral prosthetic walk-on prank for ESPN+ has officially transformed into one of Hollywood's most anticipated sports comedies, as Hulu revealed the full…
Key takeaways
- Hulu confirmed the complete ensemble cast for Chad Powers, co-created by Glen Powell and Michael Waldron, based on Eli Manning's viral ESPN sketch.
- The production follows a disgraced college quarterback who disguises himself as an eccentric walk-on prospect to resurrect his athletic career.
- The announcement triggered a surge to the top of Google Trends in the US as sports fans and pop-culture enthusiasts dissected the character roster.
What Happened
On September 5, 2026, Hulu and 20th Television officially unveiled the full supporting cast for 'Chad Powers', sparking an immediate viral surge across social media and Google Trends under the query 'chad powers cast'. Starring Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick, Twisters) in heavy prosthetic makeup and a trademark flowing blond wig, the half-hour comedy series adapts Eli Manning's beloved 2022 viral sketch from Omaha Productions. In the show, Powell portrays Russ Holliday, an arrogant college quarterback whose bad behavior abruptly derails his professional football prospects, prompting him to assume the disguise of quirky hopeful 'Chad Powers' at a struggling collegiate football program. Joining Powell in newly announced series regular roles are Steve Zahn, Toby Huss, Perry Mattfeld, Wynn Everett, and Frankie A. Rodriguez, rounding out an eccentric locker-room ensemble.
Emperoro's Take
The journey of 'Chad Powers' is a testament to how viral internet sketches have become the premier incubation laboratory for mainstream entertainment. In previous decades, Saturday Night Live sketches were the sole comedy launchpad for feature films; today, branded sports content and YouTube pranks possess the pre-built brand awareness and character affinity necessary to greenlight multi-million dollar streaming series. With Glen Powell's undeniable comedic timing and Eli Manning executive producing, 'Chad Powers' has the potential to deliver the kind of feel-good, crowd-pleasing sports satire audiences haven't seen since Ted Lasso.
Why It Matters
College football fans and entertainment followers expressed enthusiasm for the comedic casting choices, particularly praising the addition of character actor Steve Zahn as the eccentric head coach. Commenters celebrated Powell's commitment to physical comedy, with memes comparing Chad Powers' iconic catchphrase 'Think fast, run fast' spreading rapidly across TikTok.
