Glen Powell Inducted into Texas Film Hall of Fame in Star-Studded Ceremony
The Austin native celebrated his latest project, "Hit Man", alongside Richard Linklater and other Hollywood stars at the Austin Film Society’s “A Toast to Texas Film” event
The Austin Film Society (AFS) rolled out the red carpet for actor, producer, and screenwriter Glen Powell, who was inducted into the prestigious Texas Film Hall of Fame on May 16 at Troublemaker Studios. This star-studded ceremony coincided with the Netflix premiere of Powell’s latest project Hit Man at Austin’s historic Paramount Theatre.
Powell, a native Austinite has made a significant mark in the film industry, earning accolades for his versatility and on-screen charisma. His latest endeavor, Hit Man, not only showcases his acting talents but also marks his debut as a producer and co-writer alongside esteemed director Richard Linklater. The film, inspired by a captivating true story chronicled in a 2001 Texas Monthly article, follows the tale of a conservative professor who discovers an unexpected knack for impersonating a contract killer.
“It’s an honor to be part of inducting a fellow Austinite, my friend, and collaborator Glen Powell, into the Texas Film Hall of Fame,” said Linklater, the founder and artistic director of AFS. “Glen’s incredible talent has been at the center of many Texas-made independent films, network television shows, and now blockbusters like Top Gun: Maverick, Anyone But You, and Twisters. Of course, I’m delighted that he’s being inducted at the premiere of Hit Man, which we wrote together.”
The AFS “A Toast to Texas Film” event was a glamorous affair, celebrating Powell’s illustrious career while raising funds for AFS’s artistic and educational initiatives. The evening featured a red carpet, cocktail reception, seated dinner, heartfelt toasts from special guests, and an exclusive invitation to the Hit Man premiere.
Celebrating Glen Powell and supporting Texas film
Powell’s acceptance speech was a heartfelt tribute to his roots. He thanked his grade school teachers, counselor, football team, and family. “This stage is where I did my musical theatre performances. I did Music Man, Sound of Music, and Oliver. I have my signature down in the dressing room,” said Powell. “It’s amazing to have this ceremony in my backyard and the place where I caught the acting bug. I hope I get to bring more projects back to Texas, employ Texans, and lift Texans up.”
The event featured notable speeches from industry giants. Robert Rodriguez, who first cast Powell in Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over, reflected on Powell’s early career. Linklater shared insights on their collaboration, while Tom Cruise sent a pre-recorded message celebrating Powell’s achievements. His Hit Man co-stars Adria Arjona, Retta, and Sanjay Rao also took the stage to honor him.
“I want to make something really clear: This isn’t your summer, Glen, this is the Glen Powell decade,” declared Arjona during her speech.
Cruise added a touch of humor, saying, “Congratulations Glen on the incredible honor of being inducted into the Film Hall of Fame, in the country of Texas. It was a great experience working with you on Top Gun: Maverick and to see all that you have created since. And Glen, I have to say your Texas-sized talent is only matched by your Texas-sized heart. I look forward to working with you again. Enjoy the rest of your evening, and enjoy this well-deserved celebration of you, my friend.”
Hit Man will hit select theaters on May 24 and will be available on Netflix starting June 7.