Glen Powell opens up about parents’ simultaneous cancer diagnoses

Glen Powell has opened up about the emotional and financial challenges he faced after both of his parents were diagnosed with cancer at the same time.

The Chad Powers actor was 24 when his mother, Cyndy Powell, and father, Glen Powell Sr., received their diagnoses. In Esquire’s October/November 2026 cover story, Powell recalled how difficult it was to find the resources needed to support his parents while he was still trying to establish his acting career.

Powell said his mother’s illness was particularly severe and that his family did not have significant financial resources at the time. His desperation to help led him to contact people who might be able to assist with medical care.

“I was like a telemarketer, calling everyone I knew who could have donated to a hospital ever,” Powell said.

The actor also reflected on his fears about being unable to provide his parents with the best possible treatment.

Fortunately, both of his parents’ health later improved. Powell said the experience became a major motivation for him to achieve financial stability, so he could support his family if they faced serious health problems again.

Years later, when his parents experienced further health difficulties for different reasons, Powell was in a stronger financial position. He said he was able to pay for their treatment and arrange concierge doctors and detailed care plans.

Powell has remained close to his parents, who have supported him throughout his career. Cyndy and Glen Sr. have attended several major events with their son and have also appeared in some of his films and television projects, including Spy Kids 3, Anyone But You and Chad Powers.