The world of college football just got a hilarious new MVP—and he’s not even real. Hulu’s latest original series, Chad Powers, premiered September 30, 2025, and it’s already blitzing its way into the hearts of sports fans and comedy lovers alike. But what’s the real story behind this absurd, underdog football saga? Let’s break down why Chad Powers is the most talked-about show of the fall.
From Viral Prank to Prime Time
Chad Powers isn’t just another sports sitcom. The show is inspired by a viral ESPN+ skit where NFL legend Eli Manning went undercover as a walk-on quarterback at Penn State, donning a wig and fake mustache to become “Chad Powers.” The skit exploded online, and now, thanks to co-creators Glen Powell (
Top Gun: Maverick) and Michael Waldron (
Loki), it’s been reimagined as a six-episode comedy series for Hulu and Disney+.
Glen Powell’s Star Turn as a Fallen QB
Powell stars as Russ Holliday, a cocky college quarterback whose career implodes after a championship game scandal. Desperate for redemption, he reinvents himself as “Chad Powers,” a lovable, mullet-wearing misfit who tries out for a struggling Southern football team. The show’s premise is pure sports-movie gold: redemption, second chances, and the chaos of keeping a double life secret.
Powell’s performance is already drawing rave reviews for its blend of slapstick humor and genuine heart. He’s joined by a strong supporting cast, including Perry Mattfeld, Quentin Plair, Wynn Everett, Frankie Rodriguez, and Steve Zahn. NFL icons Eli and Peyton Manning serve as executive producers, ensuring the football details are as authentic as the laughs.
Weekly Episodes and What to Expect
The first two episodes dropped on premiere day, with new episodes rolling out weekly. Each episode runs about 30 minutes, making it a breezy binge for sports fans and comedy buffs alike.
Expect plenty of classic sports tropes—grueling tryouts, locker room hijinks, and big-game drama—mixed with the absurdity of a grown man hiding his true identity behind a fake mustache. But
Chad Powers also promises deeper themes of perseverance, humility, and the search for belonging, all wrapped in a package that’s as heartfelt as it is hilarious.
Why “Chad Powers” Is a Game Changer
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Unique Origin: The show’s roots in a real-life viral prank give it a meta edge that sets it apart from other sports comedies.
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Star Power: Glen Powell’s comedic chops and the Manning brothers’ football cred make for a winning team.
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Underdog Spirit: At its core,
Chad Powers is about second chances—a message that resonates far beyond the gridiron.
What’s Next for Chad Powers?
With its strong debut and buzzworthy premise,
Chad Powers could easily become Hulu’s next breakout hit. If the first season scores with audiences, don’t be surprised if the show gets picked up for more episodes—or even inspires a new wave of sports comedies rooted in real-life viral moments.
Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just love a good laugh,
Chad Powers is the underdog story you didn’t know you needed this fall.
Sources
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