Austin’s film scene is having a moment, and a constellation of stars—many of whom call the city home—are leading the charge. From blockbuster franchises to indie darlings, these actors are proving that you can go home again, and that sometimes, the best place to build a career is right where you started.
Local Luminaries: The Actors Shaping Austin’s Hollywood Rise
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A look at the stars who are both benefiting from and boosting Austin’s thriving film industry.
- Glen Powell’s return to Austin highlights the city’s growing appeal for filmmakers.
- Several actors, including Sadie Sink and Sydney Chandler, have strong ties to Central Texas.
- Austin-born Gabriel Luna is gaining prominence with roles in major television series.
- Tye Sheridan blends acting with tech innovation, founding an AI-focused visual effects company.
Glen Powell, who recently transitioned from supporting roles to leading man status, deliberately chose to return to his hometown. He doesn’t just live here; he actively champions Austin’s film community, often spotted cheering on the University of Texas Longhorns or two-stepping at local honky-tonks on weekends.
Sydney Chandler: A Local Star on the Rise
Sydney Chandler, the breakout star of Alien: Earth, boasts deep roots in the area, having grown up in Dripping Springs and attended St. Edward’s University in South Austin. Her connection to the local entertainment scene extends to family—her father is actor Kyle Chandler, known for his role in Friday Night Lights. The friendly family rivalry is on: if Chandler can maintain a role for more than five seasons, she’ll have serious bragging rights.
Gabriel Luna: From Austin Roots to ‘The Last of Us’
Austin native Gabriel Luna initially had a smaller role in the first season of HBO’s The Last of Us, but his screen time expanded significantly in the most recent season. Fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe may recognize him as Ghostrider in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., or for his portrayal of a detective in Peacock’s series about serial killer John Wayne Gacy.
Tye Sheridan: Actor and Tech Innovator
Tye Sheridan, who isn’t related to director Taylor Sheridan, first gained recognition alongside Matthew McConaughey in Jeff Nichols’ Mud, and went on to appear in Ready Player One and two X-Men films. Beyond acting, Sheridan founded a tech company focused on making visual effects tools more accessible to filmmakers. He even starred in a Zach Bryan music video filmed at the iconic Sagebrush honky-tonk.
Sadie Sink: From Brenham to Blockbusters
Though Sadie Sink didn’t appear as Max Mayfield until the second season of Stranger Things, her character has become a fan favorite—and sparked a resurgence in Kate Bush’s music. The Brenham-born actress has also appeared in the critically acclaimed The Whale and is slated for a role in Marvel’s Spider-Man: Brand New Day.
