The sequel to the 1986 classic, “Top Gun: Maverick,” debuted in theaters Friday, and grossed an estimated $124 million at the box office on opening weekend, according to Paramount.
Cruise revisits the role of Pete “Maverick” Mitchell as he returns to the naval flight academy to train a new class of pilots—including bad-boy Lt. Jake “Hangman” Seresin, played by Powell. The 33-year-old actor told USA Today he was a big fan of the original film and had auditioned for the role of Goose’s son.
“‘Top Gun’ made me want to be an actor," Powell told USA Today. "If you don't want to be a fighter pilot or an actor after watching that movie, you're crazy."
Powell shares the silver screen with actors Miles Teller, Jennifer Connelly and Jon Hamm. The Longhorn committed to the role, which he said was created with Val Kilmer’s Iceman character in mind, by getting his pilot’s license and learning how to fly an F-18.
“I've been pinching myself every second of this whole journey," Powell said. "This is what Hollywood is. It's dramatic, it beats you down a lot. But sometimes your dreams can come true in ways that you never even imagine."
Powell has starred in “Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over,” which was famously filmed in Austin, “NCIS,” “Scream Queens” and “Hidden Figures.” Paramount skipped a streaming option but the film is still in theaters.
