Glee Audition Rivals Become Lifelong Friends

As of September 2025, actor Glen Powell has opened up about his close friendship with Chord Overstreet, revealing that the two were once rivals for a major role on the popular TV series Glee. In a recent podcast interview, Powell explained that he and Overstreet both auditioned for the part of Sam Evans, a character who would go on to become a fan favorite on the show.

Despite the competitive nature of the audition process, Powell and Overstreet's friendship only grew stronger. In fact, the two became roommates shortly after Overstreet secured the role of Sam. Powell described the experience of watching his best friend's meteoric rise to fame on the "biggest show in the world" as "pretty crazy."

While Powell may have missed out on playing Sam, he has since gone on to establish himself as a successful actor in his own right. The two friends have remained close over the years, with Powell reflecting on the unique bond they share as a result of their shared Glee audition experience.