Universal Pictures Teams Up With Apatow and Powell for Original Feature
Glen Powell and Judd Apatow are joining creative forces for a brand-new comedy feature set in the world of country music, with Universal Pictures backing the project. The untitled film, which is being fast-tracked by the studio, will be directed by Apatow and co-written by both him and Powell. The story will center around a once-celebrated country western singer whose life and career are spiraling out of control.
This marks the first collaboration between the two, combining Apatow’s signature comedic voice with Powell’s rising star power. The film continues Universal’s strategy of developing high-profile original comedies after recent hits like Cocaine Bear and The Fall Guy.
A Star-Studded Production Team
Alongside starring and co-writing duties, Powell will also produce the film through Barnstorm, his production banner with Dan Cohen, via a first-look deal signed earlier this year with Universal. Kevin Misher, former president of production at Universal, joins as a producer under his Misher Films label. Apatow produces through Apatow Productions, part of his long-standing overall deal with the studio.
Universal’s Erik Baiers, senior executive vice president of production development, is overseeing the film, signaling its high priority within the studio’s comedy slate.
Apatow’s Directorial Return
This project marks a return to the director’s chair for Judd Apatow, whose previous directorial efforts include The King of Staten Island, Knocked Up, and the genre-defining The 40-Year-Old Virgin. His most recent film was The Bubble for Netflix in 2022.
Apatow is currently in production on a two-part HBO Documentary Films series about legendary filmmaker Mel Brooks, which he is co-directing alongside Michael Bonfiglio. The documentary is expected to premiere later this year.
Glen Powell’s Meteoric Rise Continues
The announcement comes during a prolific period for Glen Powell, who recently starred in Universal’s disaster epic Twisters and co-wrote and produced Hit Man, a genre-blending Netflix film directed by Richard Linklater. Powell’s versatility as a leading man is gaining momentum, with major roles lined up across multiple studios.
He recently wrapped filming on Huntington, a revenge thriller from A24 and StudioCanal, and will next be seen in Edgar Wright’s reboot of The Running Man for Paramount Pictures, due out in fall 2025. Powell also headlines Chad Powers, a new series set to premiere on Hulu.
In addition, The Hollywood Reporter recently revealed that Universal secured the rights to The Natural Order, a sci-fi feature that has Barry Jenkins in early talks to direct, with Powell set to star.
High Hopes for a Fresh Genre Blend
While plot specifics are still under wraps, the upcoming film aims to combine Apatow’s sharp humor with a dramatic dive into the world of country music fame gone wrong. The choice of setting is a unique move for both Powell and Apatow, promising a fresh take on celebrity, ego, and reinvention in the ever-evolving entertainment industry.
The movie is expected to begin production later this year, with a potential release window in 2026.