Before Glen Powell was flying fighter jets in Top Gun: Maverick, charming audiences in Anyone But You, or headlining major blockbusters, he made a brief but memorable appearance in one of TV’s most iconic procedurals — NCIS.
Yep, long before his Hollywood breakout, Powell had a guest role on NCIS that you probably forgot about… or never realized was him.
Let’s dive into the role he played, the episode he starred in, and how it all fits into his journey to stardom.
🎥 Glen Powell’s Guest Appearance on NCIS
📺 Episode Details
-
Series: NCIS (CBS)
-
Episode: Season 4, Episode 13 — “Sharif Returns”
-
Original Air Date: January 23, 2007
-
Character: Chad Dunham
🕵️ Who Was Chad Dunham?
Powell played Chad Dunham, a charming and cocky high school student who gets caught up in a deadly biological weapons investigation. While not the villain, his character provides key information that helps the team crack the case.
It’s a small role, but Powell brought just the right mix of charisma and attitude — a taste of what was to come in his career.
🔍 Why This Role Was a Big Deal (Even If It Was Small)
🚀 Early Career Exposure
For Powell, this wasn’t just a TV credit. It was an opportunity to work alongside industry vets like Mark Harmon and learn the ropes of network television — a major stepping stone for any up-and-coming actor.
📣 A Performance That Stood Out
Even with limited screen time, Powell’s confident delivery and screen presence made him memorable. Fans who rewatch the episode now often say, “Wait, is that Glen Powell?!”
🌟 Glen Powell’s Career Since NCIS
✈️ Top Gun: Maverick
Powell’s breakout came in 2022 with his role as Jake “Hangman” Seresin in Top Gun: Maverick. His swaggering performance earned critical praise and catapulted him into leading-man territory.
💘 Rom-Com Revival
He starred opposite Sydney Sweeney in Anyone But You, proving he could do comedy, romance, and box office hits with ease.
🎭 Upcoming Projects
Powell has since signed on for multiple high-profile projects, including a Richard Linklater film (Hit Man) and a new sci-fi thriller, establishing himself as one of Hollywood’s most in-demand actors.
👀 Other Early Roles You Might Have Missed
Before NCIS, Glen Powell appeared in:
-
Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over (as “Long-Fingered Boy”)
-
Jack & Bobby (TV)
-
The Great Debaters (with Denzel Washington)
These roles were the building blocks of a resume that now includes big-budget blockbusters and critically acclaimed performances.
💬 What Powell Has Said About His Early Work
While Glen Powell hasn’t specifically spoken at length about his NCIS appearance, he’s often acknowledged the importance of guest roles and bit parts early in his career. In interviews, he credits his slow and steady climb through small roles for giving him the discipline and range he brings to major films today.
🎯 Why Guest Roles Like NCIS Matter
🚪 They Open Doors
Guest spots on major TV shows like NCIS are often overlooked, but they give young actors credibility, exposure, and experience that can lead to bigger breaks.
🎓 Learning From the Best
Working with veteran actors, tight production schedules, and large audiences helps sharpen acting skills fast. Powell’s confident TV presence clearly helped him prep for movie stardom.
🧠 Fun Fact: NCIS Is a Launchpad for Many Stars
Glen Powell joins a long list of now-famous actors who appeared on NCIS early in their careers, including:
-
Zac Efron
-
Millie Bobby Brown
-
Troian Bellisario
-
Cody Fern
The show’s huge casting net and episodic format make it a perfect testing ground for young talent.
🎬 Rewatch Value: Why You Should Revisit Powell’s NCIS Episode
If you’re a fan of Glen Powell now, going back to “Sharif Returns” offers a fun, nostalgic look at his early charm. It’s like a time capsule of potential—and a reminder that every A-lister started somewhere.
📢 Final Thoughts: From Chad Dunham to Hollywood Star
Glen Powell’s quick NCIS cameo might seem like a footnote in his career, but it’s actually a fascinating look at the humble beginnings of a now-skyrocketing star. Before he was saving the world in a jet or breaking hearts in rom-coms, he was just another young actor cutting his teeth on primetime TV.
So next time you’re rewatching NCIS, pay close attention to the charming teen in Season 4, Episode 13. You’re looking at a future leading man.
❓FAQs
1. What episode of NCIS did Glen Powell appear in?
He guest-starred as Chad Dunham in Season 4, Episode 13, titled “Sharif Returns.”
2. Was Glen Powell a main character on NCIS?
No, it was a one-time guest role early in his career, before he became famous.
3. What is Glen Powell known for now?
He’s best known for roles in Top Gun: Maverick, Anyone But You, and Hit Man.
4. Did Glen Powell mention NCIS in any interviews?
While he hasn’t talked specifically about NCIS, he has spoken about how early TV roles helped shape his career.
5. Where can I watch Glen Powell’s NCIS episode?
You can stream NCIS Season 4 on Paramount+ or purchase the episode digitally on platforms like Amazon Prime Video or iTunes.
