Glen Powell Reveals He Auditioned for Glee — But the Role Went to His ‘Best Buddy’ Chord Overstreet Instead
Before Glen Powell became one of Hollywood’s most charming leading men, he was just another young actor trying to catch his big break. In a recent revelation, Powell shared that he once auditioned for a role on the hit series Glee, only to lose it to one of his closest friends — a twist that turned out to be as heartwarming as it was ironic.
During an interview, Powell looked back with a laugh on those early days when he and his buddy, Glee star Chord Overstreet, were both hustling for opportunities. They had both auditioned for the same role — Sam Evans — the lovable blond jock who later became one of the show’s fan favorites. The role ultimately went to Overstreet, but Powell insists there were no hard feelings, only pride. “One of my best buddies in the world is Chord Overstreet,” Powell said. “We both auditioned for Glee. We both auditioned for the same role [of Sam Evans].”
Powell’s honesty about his journey is refreshing in an industry that often hides the struggles behind success stories. Before landing breakout roles in Top Gun: Maverick, Anyone But You, and the upcoming Twisters sequel, he faced his share of rejections — and this was one of them. Yet, looking back, he sees it as part of the path that shaped his career. His warm friendship with Overstreet shows that even in a competitive business like Hollywood, camaraderie can come before rivalry.
The actor admitted that watching Overstreet thrive on Glee was nothing but joy. Chord joined the series in its second season and quickly became a standout, bringing humor and heart to his character. Powell, meanwhile, kept working steadily, taking on smaller roles that slowly paved his way to becoming one of the most likable stars of his generation. In retrospect, he sees that not getting the part may have been one of the best things that could have happened.
“I think everything happens when it’s supposed to,” Powell said in another interview, reflecting on how rejections often lead to better opportunities. It’s that calm confidence that defines him now — a sense of humor about the past and gratitude for where it led him. His story isn’t just about losing out on a TV role; it’s about timing, friendship, and resilience.
It’s also a reminder that Hollywood isn’t always the cutthroat place it’s made out to be. Sometimes, two friends can chase the same dream and both come out winning in their own ways. Overstreet went on to star in Glee for several seasons, while Powell became a fan-favorite actor known for his charm, talent, and relatable humility.
Now, with Powell’s career soaring — from romantic comedies to action films — the story of that Glee audition feels like a funny little footnote in a much bigger narrative. It’s a perfect example of how even the roles you don’t get can still lead you exactly where you’re meant to be.
