Invincible Season 5: Is Aaron Paul Returning After Exiting Powerplex Role?

There are few shows on streaming today that are as impactful and resonant as Invincible. It did not come as much of a surprise when Amazon announced another season of the show, continuing the war between Viltrumites and anyone who threatens their empire. And it seems like Aaron Paul, who played Powerplex might also be returning to the role.

The star-studded series has J.K. Simmons and Steven Yeun in lead roles, with more popular actors appearing on a regular basis. Though Paul stepped away from the role, the actor recently reignited speculation online after sharing an image related to the animated superhero series. His return seemed unlikely as Paul made it quite clear that he does not wish to return, but his recent Instagram story says otherwise.

Here’s everything currently known about Aaron Paul’s possible return and the future of Powerplex in Invincible.

Aaron Paul Hints Invincible Return After Exit

Aaron Paul today sparked major excitement among fans after posting an image of an Invincible script on his Instagram story. The image quickly gained attention among viewers who believed the actor may have quietly returned to record scenes for a future season of the hit Prime Video series.

Paul voiced Scott Duvall, also known as Powerplex, in Season 3 of Invincible. He became one of the season’s most intriguing characters, especially given his tragic past and deeply personal hatred toward Mark Grayson. Powerplex was motivated by the loss of his family members at the hands of Omni-Man and he would have given anything to exact revenge. 

Scott Duvall’s obsession with Mark Grayson deepens over time, and his vendetta eventually becomes tied to larger conflicts involving public distrust of superheroes. Hence, his return in season 5 is not completely out of the realm of possibility.

If Season 5 adapts more of Powerplex’s comic material, the character could return as a morally complex threat rather than a one-off villain.

Although the script story fueled speculation and confusion among fans, neither Amazon MGM Studios nor series creator Robert Kirkman has officially confirmed Aaron Paul’s return for Season 5. Still, many fans remain hopeful that the actor could finally agree to coming back as Powerplex as he plays a larger role in the original comic-book storyline that inspired the animated series.

Why Did Aaron Paul Exit Invincible?

Aaron Paul has already explained how portraying Powerplex became emotionally draining for him. During an appearance on Kinda Funny Games, the actor revealed that he was asked to return for season 4, but he declined. He said,

That show, I’m such a fan of – I watch every episode. But it was just way too grueling on my psyche. I have so much respect for what they’re doing, but Powerplex, man. He’s not just messing around; he’s going through turmoil. How I approach everything I do, I really put myself in that skin. It was a skin I didn’t feel comfortable in. I didn’t want to do it anymore.

Powerplex’s storyline in Invincible revolves around overwhelming grief, trauma, and revenge, understandably one of the darkest arcs in the show and Paul’s hesitance in bringing such emotions to life. Though he was praised for his performance, the role itself clearly took a toll on the actor personally.

Currently, there is no official update on Paul’s return to Invincible. The Instagram story seems like an easter egg, but waiting for an official announcement seems like a wise choice.  

Invincible Creator Wants Breaking Bad Star Bryan Cranston to Join Show

When a show is as popular and relevant as Invincible, every actor wants in. But this does not seem to be true for Paul’s co-star in Breaking Bad, Bryan Cranston. Having turned down multiple roles in the animated show, creator Robert Kirkman has openly expressed interest in bringing him into the franchise.

During an interview with DiscussingFilms, Kirkman mentioned Cranston as one of the actors he would love to feature in the expanding superhero universe. He said,

As far as dream casting goes, I think we offer Bryan Cranston a role every season. That has become our tradition, and his tradition is that he turns us down (laughs). But we’re coming for you again, Bryan, and we’ll see what happens next time. Fingers crossed! Literally, Bryan Cranston is the only actor that has turned us down.

Fans also seem completely enthralled with this idea, just imagining two legends of the industry – J.K. Simmons and Bryan Cranston going toe to toe in a battle of wits!

With Invincible continuing to introduce major guest stars every season, the possibility of Cranston eventually joining the voice cast remains real. Only time will tell if this possibility ever becomes a reality. Share your thoughts on this casting in the comments!

Invincible is streaming on Prime Video.