Hollywood Icon ABANDONS Fame For…CLASS?!

Hollywood Icon ABANDONS Fame For…CLASS?!

Glen Powell, the charismatic star captivating audiences in films likeTwistersandHit Man, harbors a secret ambition beyond the bright lights of Hollywood: finishing his college degree.

Nearly two decades after initially enrolling at the University of Texas at Austin in 2007, Powell is returning to the classroom. He left after just one year to wholeheartedly pursue his burgeoning acting career, a gamble that clearly paid off.

The revelation came during a conversation with co-stars Josh Brolin and Lee Pace while discussing his latest project,The Running Man. A simple question – “Hey, you guys wanna come to my graduation?” – sparked genuine surprise and curiosity.

A compilation image of Glen Powell in front of the University of Texas.

Powell intends to earn his bachelor’s degree by 2027, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to personal fulfillment alongside his demanding professional life. He’s tackling the challenge strategically, taking only six credits per semester to maintain balance.

The logistics are surprisingly modern. Powell is leveraging distance learning, attending lectures and completing coursework via Zoom, even while filming on location. He’ll travel back for proctored exams, a testament to his dedication.

Director Edgar Wright has been incredibly supportive, accommodating Powell’s academic pursuits amidst the production of a major film. This flexibility highlights a growing understanding within the industry of the importance of personal growth.

(left to right) Lee Pace, Colman Domingo, Emilia Jones, Edgar Wright and Glen Powell attending the Running Man UK premiere at Odeon Luxe in central London. Picture date: Wednesday November 5, 2025. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Ian West/PA Wire

Powell isn’t alone in this pursuit. He joins a distinguished group of celebrities who prioritized education even after achieving fame. Emma Watson completed her English Literature degree at Brown University after theHarry Pottersaga concluded.

America Ferrera, whose career launched withUgly Betty, returned to USC a decade later to finish her degree in International Relations. Eva Longoria earned a master’s degree while starring inDesperate Housewives, and even Steven Spielberg completed his Arts degree in 2002, decades after initially enrolling and *after* winning an Oscar.

These stories underscore a powerful message: success doesn’t have to come at the expense of personal aspirations. For Glen Powell, and many others, finishing what they started represents a deeply satisfying accomplishment.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - APRIL 03: Glen Powell attends CinemaCon 2025 - Paramount Pictures invites you to an exclusive presentation highlighting its upcoming slate at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace during CinemaCon, the official convention of Cinema United on April 3, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for CinemaCon)