Clear Eyes, Full Slate: Kyle Chandler’s 7 Must-See Upcoming Movies And TV Shows For 2025

Kyle Chandler, the actor fans know best as the inspiring Coach Eric Taylor from Friday Night Lights, is currently experiencing one of the busiest and most diverse phases of his career. As of December 2025, the veteran performer is slated to star in a handful of major, high-profile projects spanning dystopian thrillers, action-comedies, and a massive DC Comics television series. This surge of work solidifies his status as one of Hollywood's most reliable and critically acclaimed leading men, proving that his signature blend of gravitas and warmth continues to resonate with audiences and top-tier creators alike.

The coming year is set to redefine Chandler’s filmography, moving him from beloved TV patriarch to a key figure in major cinematic universes. From reuniting with Hollywood legends to taking on an iconic superhero mantle, his slate of upcoming releases ensures that fans will be seeing a lot of him on both the big and small screens in 2025 and beyond. Below is a deep dive into the latest news and a complete profile of the man who has perfected the art of playing the morally upright, yet deeply complex, American hero.

Kyle Chandler: Full Biography and Career Milestones

Kyle Martin Fritzgerald Chandler was born on September 17, 1965, in Buffalo, New York. His family eventually settled in Loganville, Georgia, where he developed an early interest in acting. After attending the University of Georgia, Chandler began his professional career, quickly establishing a reputation for his commanding presence and nuanced performances.

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His breakthrough role came in the late 1990s as Gary Hobson in the CBS fantasy series Early Edition, where he played a man who mysteriously received tomorrow's newspaper today. This role first showcased his ability to carry a series with a blend of earnestness and subtle humor.

The role that cemented his legacy, however, was as Coach Eric Taylor in the NBC drama Friday Night Lights (2006–2011). Chandler's portrayal of the small-town Texas football coach, known for his iconic "Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can't Lose" mantra, earned him a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2011.

Following this success, Chandler seamlessly transitioned to film, appearing in critically acclaimed movies such as Super 8, Argo, Zero Dark Thirty, and The Wolf of Wall Street. He also returned to television for the Netflix drama Bloodline, where he played John Rayburn, a role that earned him further Emmy nominations.

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Key Biographical Details:

• Full Name: Kyle Martin Fritzgerald Chandler
• Born: September 17, 1965
• Birth Place: Buffalo, New York, United States
• Spouse: Kathryn Chandler
• Children: Two daughters, Sydney and Sawyer
• Major Award: Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series (2011)
• Notable TV Roles: Gary Hobson (Early Edition), Coach Eric Taylor (Friday Night Lights), John Rayburn (Bloodline)
• Notable Film Roles: Mark Russell (Godzilla vs. Kong), Deputy Jackson Lamb (Super 8), Peter (Slumberland)

2025: Hal Jordan, Dystopia, and Netflix Action Thrills

The year 2025 marks a significant turning point for Chandler, with multiple major releases that demonstrate his range across different genres. Fans are particularly excited about his entry into the superhero world and his starring roles in two highly anticipated films.

The DC Universe Debut: Hal Jordan in 'Lanterns'

Perhaps the most talked-about project is his role as Hal Jordan, the classic Green Lantern, in the upcoming HBO Max series Lanterns. This series is a cornerstone of the new DC Studios television slate. Early glimpses and news suggest that Chandler’s version of the iconic cosmic hero will be a grizzled, veteran Green Lantern, offering a fresh take on the character. The show will reportedly focus on a duo of Green Lanterns, with Chandler's Hal Jordan likely serving as a mentor or counterpart to another Lantern, such as Guy Gardner (played by Nathan Fillion in related DC projects). The anticipation is high, with many looking forward to seeing Chandler bring his trademark intensity to a character who has been a fan favorite for decades.

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Upcoming Film Slate: 'Anniversary' and 'Back in Action'

Chandler has two major film releases scheduled for 2025: Anniversary and Back in Action.

Anniversary (2025): This dystopian political thriller, directed by Jan Komasa, features a star-studded ensemble cast, including Diane Lane, Zoey Deutch, and Phoebe Dynevor. The film is set in a near-future America facing a political and social crisis, with some critics already comparing its themes to the controversial "Project 2025." Chandler plays Paul Taylor, and his collaboration with Diane Lane has already generated positive buzz, with Lane calling him a "sunbeam" in a recent interview. The movie is slated for an October 29 release in 2025.

Back in Action (2025): This Netflix action-thriller sees Chandler join Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx in a high-octane comedy-adventure. The film, which marks Cameron Diaz's return to acting, involves a pair of former spies pulled back into the world of espionage. Chandler plays a character named Chuck, and he has participated in several interviews discussing the film's blend of action and humor. The movie’s release on a major streaming platform like Netflix ensures it will be one of the most-watched films of the year.

The Enduring Legacy of Coach Taylor and Future Projects

Even with a packed schedule of new roles, the shadow of Coach Eric Taylor remains a significant part of Kyle Chandler's public persona. The enduring power of Friday Night Lights continues to be celebrated, and fans will have a major event to look forward to in 2026.

The 'Friday Night Lights' Reunion

The cast of the beloved series is scheduled to reunite in May 2026 at the ATX TV Festival to celebrate the show's 20th anniversary. Chandler is expected to attend alongside co-star Connie Britton (Tami Taylor), providing a rare opportunity for the cast to reflect on the show’s cultural impact. This event underscores the lasting connection the actors have with the material and with each other, reinforcing the show's theme of community.

Other Anticipated Roles and Topical Authority

Beyond the confirmed 2025 releases, Chandler is also involved in several other projects that are building his topical authority across various genres:

• IT: Welcome to Derry: Chandler is part of the cast for this highly anticipated HBO series, which serves as a prequel to the Stephen King novel It. The show is set to explore the terrifying origins of Pennywise the Clown in the town of Derry, Maine, further expanding Chandler's presence in the prestige television landscape.
• The RIP (2026): This project is listed among his upcoming film credits, indicating a continued focus on feature film work extending into the following year.
• Good Morning, Midnight: Another project listed as "TBA," showing a steady pipeline of work in development.

Kyle Chandler’s career trajectory is a masterclass in longevity and versatility. He has successfully navigated the transition from television star to a sought-after movie actor, and now, to a key player in major franchise properties. With a slate that includes a DC superhero, a political drama co-starring Diane Lane, and a Netflix action film, 2025 is shaping up to be the year that permanently elevates him from beloved TV coach to a true Hollywood powerhouse. His ability to embody both the quiet strength of a small-town leader and the high-stakes intensity of a spy or superhero makes him one of the most compelling actors to watch right now.