Hollywood’s been saying for years: where have all the movie stars gone? Big names pop up, hit big, fade quicker than ever. Movie goers chase familiar faces — yet fewer actors today carry the kind of marquee pull that Tom Cruise did at his peak. But Glen Powell might be the exception. After a string of hits and with the upcoming remake of The Running Man, he’s positioning himself as one of the rare actors who might rise into that “global star” space again.
Powell’s career trajectory is a textbook kind of Hollywood climb. Many knew him from smaller roles, but his breakout turned when he starred alongside Cruise in Top Gun: Maverick in 2022, playing Lt. Jake “Hangman” Seresin. That gave him visibility, credibility, and star-level exposure. Then he didn’t vanish into supporting parts — instead he picked hits across genres: the romantic comedy Anyone But You (which grossed over $220 million worldwide) showcased his charm and box-office clout. He followed with Twisters in 2024 and the Hulu series Chad Powers. These moves demonstrated that he isn’t a one-note actor; he can hit comedy, romance, action. The upcoming The Running Man, directed by Edgar Wright, is his boldest move yet — the kind of action-thriller that demands “star” status.
What gives Powell that potential? A few things. He has the looks and charisma to fill theatres; he has shown willingness to do physical action (running, stunts) and the kind of commitment that today’s blockbuster requires. He also seems savvy in career choices: instead of chasing the huge, multi-year franchise early, he’s building a reputation, proving bankability, and positioning himself for the big leap. Wright called him “our guy” for The Running Man because he believed Powell had both the “everyman” quality and the star magnetism. The story here: Powell isn’t just copying Cruise, he’s forging his own path with similar playbook moves action roles, big stakes, global reach.
But let’s not pretend it’s guaranteed. Cruise didn’t become Cruise overnight he had decades, iconic films across genres, risk-taking roles, massive stunts, and a cultural moment. Powell has to hit with The Running Man, sustain momentum, avoid being typecast, and navigate an industry where true solo stars are rare. Also, Hollywood now has streaming, TV, global blockbusters, franchise fatigue; being a “movie star” means something different than it did in the 80s and 90s. Still, the fact that analysts and studio execs are mentioning his name in the same breath as “the next star” signals how unusual his rise is.
He also seems aware of the legacy element. Cruise gave him advice on stunt work and running scenes; Powell asked for tips — showing he understands the physicality and commitment required when you’re the face of a film. Wright mentions he knew Powell studied running because Cruise told him “you should film yourself running because you don’t look as cool as you think you do.” These are not just gimmicks they reflect serious craft and image work.
From a market standpoint, studios are star-hungry. With fewer sure star vehicles, having an actor who can lead a major action title, sell global, and bring charisma is gold. When Studios see Powell leading The Running Man — a remake of a well-known brand, directed by a respected filmmaker — they see a test: Can he open big worldwide? If yes, then franchise offers, brand deals, and long-term star status could follow. If no? The fall can be swift.
To you as a movie-goer, what to watch for: How The Running Man performs globally. How Powell is presented in marketing (does he dominate posters/trailers?). How subsequent choices reflect star strategy (action plus drama plus franchise?). Will he start carrying films solo, rather than being part of ensemble or as second lead? And will he maintain growth rather than peak early?
In short: Glen Powell isn’t the next Tom Cruise by default — but he has the ingredients on paper, at the moment when Hollywood is missing stars, and if all goes well, he might be one of the few to fill that vacuum. The film is out Friday. If you’re curious about where the next generation of movie stars might come from — Powell is where to look.
