Glen Powell Reunites with Richard Linklater to Play Lou Gehrig in New Universal Baseball Drama

Glen Powell and director Richard Linklater are partnering again on an untitled Lou Gehrig biopic at Universal Pictures, with SNL writer Simon Rich penning the screenplay. The project reunites the actor and filmmaker following their 2016 college baseball comedy "Everybody Wants Some!" and marks only the second major theatrical adaptation of the legendary Yankees first baseman's story in over eight decades.

The Project and Creative Team

Powell will portray Gehrig, whose legacy as one of baseball's greatest players centers on his record streak of 2,130 consecutive games played across 14 seasons—a mark that stood as seemingly unbreakable until Cal Ripken surpassed it in 1998. Simon Rich, known for his work on "Saturday Night Live," has been tasked with developing the screenplay. Lorne Michaels, the longtime Yankees enthusiast, is producing through his Broadway Video banner under the studio's first-look deal, alongside Erin David. Powell is also producing the film alongside Dan Cohen through his Barnstorm production company.

Linklater has demonstrated a consistent passion for baseball storytelling throughout his career, previously directing the "Bad News Bears" remake, the documentary "Inning by Inning: A Portrait of a Coach," and his 2016 college baseball comedy. The director's involvement signals a commitment to substantive character work rather than surface-level sports drama.

Gehrig's Historical Significance

Gehrig earned the nickname "The Iron Horse" due to his durability and consistency. During his 17-year career entirely with the New York Yankees, he won six World Series titles, including the 1927 Yankees team widely regarded as one of the greatest ever assembled. In 1934, Gehrig won the Triple Crown, batting .363 with 49 home runs and 166 RBIs. His career ended abruptly in 1939 when he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the neurodegenerative disease now commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease. He died at age 37 in 1941.

Plot Direction and Casting Search

Specific plot details have not yet been disclosed, though industry sources indicate the film may center on Babe Dahlgren, the player who replaced Gehrig at first base following the end of his consecutive games streak. That supporting role is expected to attract significant actor interest given the star power attached to the overall project. The previous major Gehrig adaptation, "Pride of the Yankees" (1942), starred Gary Cooper and featured baseball legend Babe Ruth playing himself.

Powell is taking a planned break following an extended period of continuous work. Production start dates have not been announced.