Glen Powell found himself in a near financial crisis while waiting for the release of “Top Gun: Maverick” in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite never having made significant money from a film, Powell was depleting his savings while waiting for the release of the movie. Initially slated for 2019, the film was repeatedly delayed due to the pandemic. The movie had opportunities to be released on streaming services, but Tom Cruise insisted on a theatrical release, ultimately affecting the financial stability of younger actors like Powell.
After a two-year delay, “Top Gun: Maverick” finally hit theaters in May 2022. Powell shared that while waiting for the film’s release, he was eager for his life to change, as co-star Tom Cruise was already an established Hollywood figure. Despite the financial constraints the delay caused, the movie was a massive success, grossing $1.5 billion worldwide and solidifying Powell’s status as a breakout star. The film has been a significant milestone in Powell’s career and has contributed to his rise in Hollywood.
After the success of “Top Gun: Maverick,” Glen Powell reached Hollywood stardom with the release of the romantic comedy “Anyone But You” in December 2023, alongside Sydney Sweeney. The chemistry between Powell and Sweeney in the film led to rumors about a potential off-screen relationship, despite Sweeney being engaged to Jonathan Davinoof. Powell admitted to leaning into the romance gossip to help promote the film, as chemistry and fun are crucial elements in a romantic comedy. The rumors about their relationship helped propel the movie to success, grossing over $219 million worldwide.
Powell and Sweeney sparked relationship rumors in March 2023 when they were spotted getting cozy on set and spending time together with Powell’s family. While the rumors were just that, rumors, they played a role in boosting the popularity of “Anyone But You” at the box office. The actors’ effortless chemistry and genuine friendship translated well onto the screen, captivating audiences and fueling speculation about their relationship. Powell acknowledged that sometimes embracing such rumors can be beneficial in promoting a romantic comedy film, especially when the on-screen chemistry is as strong as it was in “Anyone But You.”
Despite the financial challenges Glen Powell faced during the wait for “Top Gun: Maverick,” the film’s success was a turning point in his career. Powell’s portrayal in the film helped solidify his status as a rising Hollywood star. Additionally, the success of “Anyone But You” further enhanced Powell’s reputation, showcasing his versatility as an actor in different genres. Powell’s handling of the rumors surrounding his on-screen chemistry with Sydney Sweeney also demonstrated his ability to leverage public interest in his personal life to boost the popularity of his projects. Overall, the journey from near financial struggle to Hollywood success has been a significant part of Powell’s recent career trajectory.
