Glen Powell's Sports Show Just Got a Season 2 on Hulu – But Don't Be Fooled by the High Scores

Chad Powers, released on Hulu, instantly won over viewers thanks to its absurd humor and the charm of its main character, a washed-up football star played by Glen Powell who assumes a new identity to salvage his career.

The first season, fueled by constant suspense of potential exposure and humor that was almost primal in its simplicity, became a hit.

However, the second season elicits mixed feelings. The creators opted for a tonal shift, injecting paranoid thriller elements into the story, however, the execution is clumsy.

What Is 'Chad Powers' Season 2 About?

Russ Holliday continues to play a dangerous game by posing as Chad Powers. By the end of Season 1, the alter ego had become a pivotal member of the team, though his relationship with Ricky, the coach's daughter, had deteriorated after she discovered his deception.

Furthermore, grappling with an identity crisis, Russ slept with Hudson's wife and her confession subsequently triggered a heart attack in the coach. In the second season, Chad rises to college football stardom and leads the team to the NCAA finals. Yet, a new threat brews behind the scenes.

Gerry, the team's backup quarterback, who had previously concealed his psychological distress with Christian patience, completely loses his grip on reality after losing the battle for the starting job. While Chad basks in the limelight, Gerry plots his destruction.

Season 2 Has Lost the Sparkling Spontaneity That Made the First Season So Beloved

The main problem with the second season is that it lacks the eccentric spontaneity that made the first season so charming. Michael Waldron decided to shift from lighthearted absurdity to a dark psychological thriller, however, the transition wasn't smooth.

Jokes that once came thick and fast now appear barely once per episode. Instead of Russ' endless stream of improvisations we're presented with a sluggish love-triangle storyline.

While Waldron breathes new life into Chad, making him less of a caricature, he also pushes a superficial external conflict to the forefront, weighing down an already uneven plot.

Despite Its Flaws, 'Chad Powers' Season 2 Is Still Worth Watching

Glen Powell continues to shine in his dual role, demonstrating his amazing ability to switch between the cocky Russ and his goofy alter ego.

Furthermore, the show's central premise – a protagonist who achieves success by distancing himself from his true self – remains relevant and engaging. The second season attempts to add depth to the story by exploring themes of self-identity and the price of success.

If you've grown fond of this absurd character, the second season is worth watching – if only to see how his risky venture plays out. While it doesn't surpass the original, it's certainly not a total failure.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Chad Powers' Season 2?

• Chad Powers Season 2 has 91% from critics and 92% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.