For over a decade, Marvel fans have been waiting for the Nova Corps to truly take flight in the MCU, ever since their debut in "Guardians of the Galaxy." But the cosmic peacekeeping force has remained largely on the sidelines, leaving one of its most iconic members, Richard Rider, grounded. Is Marvel Studios missing a golden opportunity?
In the comics, Richard Rider is an Earth-based hero who becomes Nova after the tragic death of Rhomann Dey (played by John C. Reilly in the movie). Rider inherits Dey’s power, joining the intergalactic police force. But the character has not had an appearance in the MCU beyond the Guardians introductory film.
There's been on-again, off-again buzz about a potential Nova project for years, but development has stalled, even paused earlier this year. This raises the question: Will we ever see a proper Nova movie or series?
But here's where it gets interesting. "Loki" writer Michael Waldron recently weighed in on who he thinks would be perfect for the role of Nova: Glen Powell, the star of his upcoming projects "Chad Powers" and "Running Man."
When The Playlist asked Waldron where Powell would best fit within the MCU, he didn't hesitate: "He'd be a pretty good Nova." And honestly, it's hard to disagree. Powell's charisma and range seem tailor-made for the character. It would be a great way for Powell to star in a film he loves, as well as taking on a role similar to one that comic fans have wanted him to play for years, but probably will never see him as.
Think about it: Glen Powell as Nova would essentially be Marvel's answer to Hal Jordan, the Green Lantern.
After stealing scenes in "Top Gun: Maverick," Powell became a fan-favorite choice to play Hal Jordan. But here's where it gets controversial... DC seems to be going in a different direction with their Green Lantern plans, potentially featuring a more seasoned Hal Jordan, with Kyle Chandler rumored for the role in the HBO "Lanterns" series.
So, if Powell can't be Green Lantern, isn't Nova the next best thing? If not, better?
Regardless of the intergalactic space force he's aligned with, Powell seems like the perfect fit for this kind of role. He could even portray one of the last surviving members of the Nova Corps, especially considering their home base, Xandar, was obliterated by Thanos before "Avengers: Infinity War." (Remember that off-screen tragedy? It still stings!)
And this is the part most people miss... While Powell hasn't openly declared allegiance to either the Marvel or DC universes, he has expressed his admiration for "Guardians of the Galaxy," arguing that it changed the superhero landscape by allowing heroes to be fun and lighthearted. He told The Playlist in 2024, "You know I've never gotten a call from DC or Marvel, but I'm a fan of everything they do." He praised "Guardians of the Galaxy," which he argued stopped heroes from "not being brooding or dark" anymore with Star Lord.
So, could Glen Powell keep the cosmic torch burning as Nova, bringing that same blend of humor and heroism? Can he dance to "Come and Get Your Love" as well as Chris Pratt? Only time will tell.
But what do you think? Would Glen Powell make a great Nova? Or do you have someone else in mind for the role? Let us know in the comments!
