By C. J. De Mel, Jadetimes News
Hollywood's rising star Glen Powell, known for his roles in Top Gun: Maverick, Anyone But You, and Twisters, is determined to complete his degree in Spanish and Early American History at the University of Texas while shooting his next film. Despite his busy schedule, Powell, 35, plans to attend Zoom classes and return to Texas for proctored exams as he works on a remake of the 1987 sci fi classic, The Running Man, directed by Edgar Wright.
Powell, originally from Austin, Texas, has recently relocated back to his home state to be closer to his family after living in Hollywood. In an interview with IndieWire, Powell explained, "I’m going to be in London, but I am going to be going back for proctored exams. They’re letting me figure it out with distance learning. I have to be back for the proctored exams." He anticipates returning to Texas "two or three times a semester" and expressed gratitude for Wright's understanding of his academic commitments.
Featured on the cover of a recent Hollywood Reporter issue highlighting "the new A list," Powell shared his perspective on moving back to Texas. He believes reaching his current level of success in Hollywood has afforded him the opportunity to reconnect with his roots. "I felt like I’ve earned the ability to go back to my family," Powell said, citing advice from fellow Texan actor Matthew McConaughey.
Powell's decision to finish his degree holds personal significance. "I think it’s really important to my mom, and it’s more of an emotional thing for me," he told the Hollywood Reporter. Known for his close relationship with his parents and two sisters, Powell often has his family accompany him to press events.
Despite his return to Texas, Powell emphasized he has "nothing against Hollywood" and appreciates the industry and its people. "I love being around people who love entertainment, and I love what [Hollywood] represents. Coming here for little chunks of time and doing all the stuff I need to do here, it’s great. I just realized, in terms of filling up the pieces of me that need to be refueled between projects, that’s all Austin for me."
Glen Powell's commitment to balancing his academic pursuits with his burgeoning acting career underscores his dedication to both personal and professional growth.