Glen Powell to leave Hollywood following fellow actor Matthew McConaughey’s Advice

Glen Powell, renowned for his roles in "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Anyone but You," explained that McConaughey’s perspective on Hollywood life played a pivotal role in his decision. 

Powell, who grew up in Austin and briefly attended the University of Texas,has announced his decision to leave Los Angeles and return to his home state of Texas. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the 35-year-old actor revealed his motivations, attributing significant influence to fellow Texan and actor Matthew McConaughey.

“He’s like, ‘Hollywood is the Matrix, man. You plug in and it’s all fake world,’” Powell recalled McConaughey saying. “He’s like, ‘Then I go to Austin, and I unplug. It’s all real. Those are my friends, that’s my family, my actions matter there.’”

Reflecting on McConaughey’s advice, Powell concurred, stating, “And he’s right. If you’re here, you live in the Matrix all the time, there’s no separation of those worlds. And for me, especially as my parents get older and my niece and nephew are growing up, I want a separation of those worlds.”

McConaughey himself has been vocal about his choice to leave California for a simpler lifestyle in Texas, where he resides with his wife, Camila Alves McConaughey, and their three children.

Powell’s move comes after more than 15 years in Hollywood, where he has achieved significant success. “Getting to this point in Hollywood is that I can now leave Hollywood,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. “It’s like I’ve earned the ability to go back to my family.” 

The actor has sold his Hollywood Hills home and purchased a new residence just 30 minutes from his parents’ house in Texas. Despite the move, he plans to maintain his home in New York City’s Tribeca neighborhood, although Austin will be his primary residence.

In addition to being closer to his family, Powell expressed his intention to complete his studies at the University of Texas, focusing on his Spanish and Early American History degree. “I think it’s really important to my mom and it’s more of an emotional thing for me,” he shared. “Plus, I’m so close, I can taste it.”

Powell’s decision underscores a desire for a balanced life, integrating both his professional career and personal relationships. “My family keeps me out of my head,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of being around loved ones.

As Powell transitions to life in Texas, he reassures fans that his acting career will continue. His move signifies not an end but a new chapter, grounded in the values and connections of his home state.