Glen Powell Steps Into Iconic Running Man Role with Schwarzeneggers Blessing

Glen Powell’s The Running Man Remake Earns Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Full Blessing

Glen Powell is stepping into Arnold Schwarzenegger’s iconic role in The Running Man. The 2025 action thriller hits theaters on November 14 with director Edgar Wright at the helm. Best of all? Schwarzenegger himself gave the remake his full blessing on camera.

The Austrian Oak called it “really fantastic” and praised the film’s “unbelievable” action sequences. This endorsement is significant. Schwarzenegger has historically been against remakes of his classic films.

Securing a Legend’s Approval

Glen Powell confirmed in April 2025 that he had secured Arnold Schwarzenegger’s blessing. Powell reached out through Patrick Schwarzenegger, Arnold’s son and a personal friend. They connected via FaceTime to discuss the project in detail.

Arnold immediately gave them his seal of approval. “Arnold gave us his blessing,” Powell told People at the NYC premiere on November 9. The iconic action star reversed his typical stance on remakes for this specific project.

Schwarzenegger called this “the only movie that I always wanted to have redone of my movies.” He expressed genuine enthusiasm for the modern update. His support provided crucial validation for the new cast and crew.

A Modern Take on a Dystopian Classic

The film is based on Stephen King’s 1982 novel of the same name. Edgar Wright directed the script he co-wrote with Michael Bacall. This marks only the second adaptation of the dystopian classic.

In a near-future society, The Running Man dominates television ratings. This deadly competition forces Runners to survive 30 days while being hunted by professional assassins. Every move is broadcast to millions of viewers.

Ben Richards becomes a Runner out of sheer desperation. He needs money to save his sick daughter. The show’s charming but ruthless producer Dan Killian, played by Josh Brolin, recruits him for the deadly game.

The Physical and Emotional Demands

Glen Powell faced intense pressure taking on this legendary role. Multiple action movie veterans warned him about the challenges beforehand. Powell acknowledged the difficulty at the premiere.

“Every single one of my buddies who have starred in action movies told me this,” he shared. All of them said the same thing: it would be “intense.” Being the front-and-center lead in a high-stakes thriller demands serious commitment.

Yet Powell delivered with visible pride. “To do it right—and I really am so proud of what we did—it’s very physical, it’s very emotional,” he told People. The film showcases an entire world hunting one man nonstop.

The Running Man 2025 represents a major moment for action cinema. Glen Powell carries Schwarzenegger’s torch into a new generation. This remake promises to honor the original while creating its own legacy.

Thought you’d like to know

When does The Running Man 2025 release?

The film releases in theaters nationwide on November 14, 2025. The runtime is approximately 2 hours and 13 minutes. It carries an R rating for violence and language.

Who else stars in the remake alongside Glen Powell?

Josh Brolin plays the ruthless game show producer Dan Killian. The supporting cast includes Emilia Jones, Lee Pace, and Michael Cera. Colman Domingo and William H. Macy also feature in key roles.

How is this adaptation different from the 1987 version?

This version returns closer to Stephen King’s original novel. It focuses more on the dystopian reality television concept. The tone is reportedly darker and more grounded than the Arnold original.

What did Arnold Schwarzenegger say about the remake?

Schwarzenegger called the action “unbelievable and creative.” He stated this was the only movie of his he ever wanted remade. His official blessing came via a video message in November 2025.

Who is directing The Running Man remake?

Edgar Wright directs from a script he co-wrote with Michael Bacall. Wright is known for his stylish action comedies like Baby Driver. This marks his biggest budget project to date.