Glen Powell & Richard Linklater Reunite for Lou Gehrig Film at Universal

Glen Powell is set to star as baseball icon Lou Gehrig in a new untitled film at Universal, with Richard Linklater attached to direct, according to Deadline. The project marks the latest collaboration between the actor and filmmaker.

Simon Rich is writing the script for the biopic. Lifelong New York Yankees fan Lorne Michaels will produce the film through his Broadway Video banner, alongside Erin David.

Who is Lou Gehrig?

Lou Gehrig, nicknamed "The Iron Horse," was a New York Yankees first baseman considered one of baseball's greatest players. He set a record by playing in a record 2,130 consecutive games, a testament to his durability. His career and life were tragically cut short when he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), now commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, in 1939; he died in 1941 at age 37.

What is the film's status?

While the specific story details are not yet known, sources indicate a key role is expected for Babe Dahlgren, the player who replaced Gehrig at first base. There is no production start date set, as Powell reportedly plans to take a break after a busy year of filming. Linklater is in talks to produce the project through his Detour Filmproduction company.

This project continues Powell and Linklater's creative partnership, which includes the 2016 college baseball film Everybody Wants Some! and the recent 2024 Netflix comedy Hit Man.