Home / Arts and Entertainment / Glen Powell: Politics Divides, My Calling is Elsewhere
Glen Powell: Politics Divides, My Calling is Elsewhere
7 Oct
Summary
- Glen Powell finds political discourse unhealthy and divisive.
- Powell's film 'The Running Man' underperformed at the box office.
- Jennifer Lawrence also avoids public political statements now.
Actor Glen Powell has expressed a firm stance against participating in political discourse, viewing it as inherently divisive and unhealthy. Powell, known for his role in 'Top Gun: Maverick' and the "Chad Powers" character, told Esquire that his "calling is elsewhere," emphasizing that his upbringing, where politics were seldom a dinner table topic, shaped this perspective.
Powell's remarks come as his 2025 film, 'The Running Man,' experienced a disappointing box office run, grossing less than $70 million worldwide against a $110 million budget. He attributed some of this financial shortfall to significant marketing department turnover at Paramount, including mass layoffs in October 2025 during a studio merger.
This desire to steer clear of public political commentary is shared by other prominent Hollywood figures. Jennifer Lawrence, in November 2025, confided to The New York Times her decision to cease open political discussions. She reflected that celebrity endorsements do not sway elections and engaging in political debate can exacerbate national division and alienate audiences from art.
