Unlike his father’s more traditional Hollywood career, Chet Hanks has built a reputation for his outspoken personality and music career. However, Running Point‘s early reviews note his compelling acting return, as his scene-stealing performance showcases a newfound range. Though Travis begins as a typical self-absorbed and unruly athlete, his storyline becomes one of the most compelling by Running Point‘s ending. While Hanks has previous experience in both film and TV, Running Point seems like a big next step, showing a promising career ahead.
Chet Hanks Plays Travis Bugg In Netflix’s Running Point
Chet Hanks Offers An Unexpected Vulnerability To His Brash Running Point Character
Running Point‘s solid Rotten Tomatoes score is amazing news for the actor, who plays Travis Bugg, a basketball player who’s also a PR nightmare for the Gordon family. While her brothers want to trade him for his problematic behavior, Isla (Hudson) sees his potential and sets out on a mission to correct him. Hanks plays an undisciplined half-sportsman, half-musician celebrity-type, who’s also quite sexist, as are many of the characters in the male-dominated industry. As the point guard for the Waves basketball team, however, Buggs’ dedication is crucial.
The comic sports part suits Hanks perfectly and could set up a future career in the genre.
Following Running Point‘s true Isla Gordon inspiration, the new Waves president works hard and earns her team’s respect and trust, uncovering a more complex side to Travis. The actor offers a great balance of brash and comically clueless, but also subtly insecure, getting the audience on his side by the end of the season. Hanks’ performance is strong and adds depth to the show, making his presence crucial for a possible Running Point season 2. His character’s growth not only enhances the narrative but also serves as a key element in showcasing Isla’s skills in the world of sports.
Chet Hanks’ Last Major Acting Role Came In Your Honor Season 1
Running Point Could Pave The Way For Chet Hanks’ Career In A New Genre
Chet Hanks had a recurring role in Showtime’s acclaimed series, Your Honor, which stars actor Bryan Cranston as a respected judge who gets caught in a web of crime. Though he has had smaller roles in other TV shows and movies since then, Hanks’ longest role to date has been in Empire. He joined the Fox drama series in season 4 and became a main character in season 5. Though the actor’s previous roles may not be in shows like Running Point, the comic sports part suits Hanks perfectly and could set up a future career in the genre.
Also known for his recurring character in Shameless, Hanks has made guest appearances in several TV shows, including Atlanta, NCIS: New Orleans, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Maron. Running Point marks a major return for Hanks after spending recent years focusing on other ventures. Notably, he has appeared in projects as himself and pursued a music career. Chet Hanks’ acting comeback is very promising and could open doors for him to take on more prominent roles in future projects.
What’s next? Season 2’s confirmed (March 6, 2025)—Travis’ arc could deepen, maybe rehab or redemption. Chet’s got range to flex; Your Honor proved he can brood, Empire that he can swagger. X speculates: “More Travis chaos, please!” He’s juggling music too—Something Out West’s EP drops soon—and a drama with Lily Gladstone and Brian Cranston looms. “I’m splitting time between LA and Nashville,” he told Men’s Health, chasing both crafts. At 34, he’s not Tom—less polish, more edge—but Running Point shows he’s no fluke. “If I didn’t get this, I’d quit,” he laughed to Esquire. He didn’t—and now he’s stealing scenes.
Is it talent or timing? Chet’s pedigree opened doors—Larry Crowne doesn’t cast just anyone—but Running Point’s his hustle. “He auditioned, blew us away,” Barinholtz said, no handouts here. His past—wild, messy, public—fuels Travis, but the craft’s real. X debates: “Nepo baby with skill” vs. “Lucky break, nothing more.” Compare Colin Hanks—steady, low-key—to Chet’s rollercoaster; he’s carved a lane, not inherited one. Running Point’s a win—funny, flawed, bingeable—and Chet’s the spark. Four years off, one big comeback: he’s not just Tom’s kid anymore. Season 2’s coming—bet on Travis, and Chet, to keep the court hot.
