Frankie Rodriguez Shines in Sports Comedy “Chad Powers”

“Chad Powers” is Hulu’s latest sports comedy series, blending time-honored tropes of athletic underdog stories with the fresh energy of today’s diverse television landscape. The show stars Glen Powell as Russ Holliday, a disgraced former pro quarterback who dons a fake identity to infiltrate a struggling college football team. Among the standout supporting cast is Frankie Rodriguez, who plays Danny, the team’s mascot and confidant, bringing a queer perspective to a genre historically dominated by heteronormative narratives .

The storyline of “Chad Powers” finds Russ Holliday at a personal and professional crossroads. After a scandal derails his career, Russ adopts the persona of Chad Powers—complete with a prosthetic disguise—to earn a spot on the college team and win back lost respect. The plot draws inspiration from a comedic sketch on “Eli’s Places,” with Eli and Peyton Manning serving as executive producers to lend authenticity and humor rooted in real football culture . The series is helmed by Michael Waldron, whose work on “Loki” and “Rick and Morty” is evident in the show’s quick pacing and offbeat comedic sensibility.

Frankie Rodriguez’s character, Danny, stands out not only for his comedic timing but also for the subtle, authentic inclusion of LGBTQ+ identity. Rodriguez, who is openly gay, has previously spoken about the importance of representation in his work and brings that commitment to “Chad Powers” . Danny’s friendship with Russ/Chad becomes a central emotional thread, offering moments of vulnerability and connection that go beyond typical sidekick dynamics. This nuanced portrayal reflects a broader industry trend toward multidimensional LGBTQ+ characters in genres where they have historically been marginalized.

The humor in “Chad Powers” is driven by classic fish-out-of-water antics, with Russ struggling to maintain his cover under increasingly absurd circumstances. Critics have noted that while the rapid pacing occasionally sacrifices character backstory for immediate laughs, the ensemble cast—including Rodriguez and Wynn Everett—helps ground the show in relatable interpersonal drama . The dynamic between the coaching staff, including assistant coach Ricky (Perry Mattfeld) and head coach Jake Hudson (Steve Zahn), provides additional layers of comedic tension and heartfelt stakes.

Rodriguez’s presence in “Chad Powers” is notable within the context of sports comedies, a genre that has historically sidelined or stereotyped LGBTQ+ individuals. His casting and the show’s treatment of Danny as a fully realized character reflect a growing recognition of the importance of inclusion in television narratives. This is especially significant given the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ athletes and fans in both collegiate and professional sports settings .

Industry observers have praised “Chad Powers” for normalizing LGBTQ+ experiences within the traditionally masculine world of football, providing visibility without resorting to tokenism or caricature . The show’s willingness to integrate queer characters into the main storyline signals progress for both entertainment and broader cultural acceptance.

Early reviews have described “Chad Powers” as “a charming, inoffensive comedy” that delivers consistent laughs while gently subverting expectations . While some critics point to the show’s reliance on genre conventions and streaming-era pacing as limitations, many agree that its strengths lie in character-driven humor and the chemistry among its leads .

Rodriguez’s performance has been particularly well received, with reviewers highlighting his ability to imbue Danny with genuine heart and depth. According to an interview with The Advocate, Rodriguez expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play a character whose sexuality is integrated naturally into the narrative, rather than being his sole defining trait .

The increasing visibility of LGBTQ+ characters in shows like “Chad Powers” aligns with a broader push for diversity and inclusion across the entertainment industry. Organizations like GLAAD and the Human Rights Campaign have documented the positive impact that authentic representation has on both LGBTQ+ audiences and the wider public . By placing a queer character in a central, comedic, and affirming role within a sports narrative, “Chad Powers” contributes to the ongoing reshaping of mainstream television.

While “Chad Powers” may not radically reinvent the sports comedy, its commitment to inclusive casting and storytelling marks a meaningful step forward. Frankie Rodriguez’s portrayal of Danny, alongside a strong ensemble and sharp writing, helps demonstrate that LGBTQ+ stories are not only welcome but essential in every genre. As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, shows like “Chad Powers” set a precedent for nuanced, authentic, and joyful queer representation.