Glen Powell Shares Why He Skipped a Photo with a Controversial Star and Talks Cancel Culture
Glen Powell recently opened up about a choice he made when meeting a Hollywood actor who has faced public backlash.
Speaking on the Therapuss with Jake Shane podcast, Powell explained that while he admired the actor’s work, he chose not to take a photo with them at a party.
“This person had made some of my favorite movies,” Powell said. However, he quickly realized that a photo could reflect poorly on him because of the actor’s tarnished reputation. “And I realized that this guy, his face is toxic,” he added.
“Going out into the world, people are having a visceral reaction to this person in terms of the bad choice they’ve made.” Powell emphasized that he respected the actor’s work but did not condone their actions.
Powell also discussed how this situation reminded him of his character, Russ Holliday, from the comedy series Chad Powers.
He reflected on the difference between a person making a mistake and someone whose actions might be more serious. “Russ Holiday is just a guy who made a mistake. He’s not a bad guy,” Powell said. “Some of these other people who get canceled, they should lie where they’re shot.”
He shared his views on cancel culture, pointing out how social media has made mistakes feel permanent. Powell highlighted how reactions can vary—some people take accountability, some double down, and others resort to conspiracy theories. “Just having a character learning to say ‘I’m sorry’ is a really beautiful thing,” he added.
Powell did not reveal the actor’s identity but used the story to explain how he navigates respect for others’ work while being mindful of public perception.
Powell’s choice shows the tightrope actors walk in Hollywood today. Admiring someone’s talent doesn’t always mean endorsing their actions. Cancel culture remains a complicated issue, but his approach, acknowledging talent while setting personal boundaries, feels thoughtful.
What do you think about Powell’s decision to skip the photo? Do you agree with his approach to cancel culture? Share your thoughts in the comments.