The Next Chapter: Cooper Hoffman's 6 Must-Watch Movies And Projects (2024–2026)

The legacy continues, but the star is forging his own path. As of late 2025, Cooper Hoffman, the son of the late, great Philip Seymour Hoffman, is no longer just "the kid from *Licorice Pizza*." His filmography has exploded with major roles in high-profile projects, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood's most compelling young actors. This article provides the most current and in-depth look at his career trajectory, focusing on the fresh, must-see films that are defining his next chapter from 2024 through 2026. Born into cinematic royalty, Cooper Hoffman has successfully navigated the immense pressure of his lineage by selecting diverse and challenging roles, moving beyond the nostalgic glow of his breakout performance. His upcoming slate includes everything from a Stephen King horror adaptation to a comedic turn as a legendary TV producer, proving his versatility and deep commitment to the craft.

Cooper Hoffman: A Quick Biography and Filmography

Cooper Alexander Hoffman was born on March 20, 2003, in New York City. He is the son of the revered Oscar-winning actor Philip Seymour Hoffman and costume designer Mimi O'Donnell. His entry into acting was marked by an immediate and significant splash, bypassing the usual small roles for a leading part in a major motion picture. His age, as of late 2025, places him among the most exciting talents in the rising generation of Hollywood stars.

Key Filmography Highlights

• Breakout Role: Gary Valentine in *Licorice Pizza* (2021)
• Recent Role: Manley Pointer in *Wildcat* (2023)
• Upcoming Role: Dick Ebersol in *Saturday Night* (2024)
• Upcoming Lead Role: Ray Garraty in *The Long Walk* (2025)

The 6 Essential Cooper Hoffman Movies and Projects (2024–2026)

Cooper Hoffman’s early career was defined by his critically acclaimed debut in Paul Thomas Anderson’s *Licorice Pizza*, a performance that earned him widespread praise for his natural screen presence and chemistry with co-star Alana Haim. Now, his film choices are showcasing a deliberate effort to diversify his roles and genres, moving from coming-of-age drama to comedy, horror, and indie cinema.

1. Saturday Night (2024): The Dick Ebersol Transformation

One of Hoffman's most anticipated roles is his portrayal of Dick Ebersol in the 2024 film *Saturday Night*. This biographical comedy-drama, directed by Jason Reitman, chronicles the frantic, high-stakes events leading up to the very first broadcast of *Saturday Night Live* in 1975. Dick Ebersol is a legendary American television executive and producer who was instrumental in the early days of the show. Hoffman's role is a significant departure from the laid-back, rambling charm of Gary Valentine, requiring him to embody a real-life industry figure. This project is a major test of his dramatic and comedic range, placing him alongside a star-studded ensemble cast.

2. The Long Walk (2025): Stepping into Stephen King's Horror

Perhaps the most buzzworthy entry on his upcoming slate is the lead role in the film adaptation of Stephen King’s classic dystopian novel, *The Long Walk*. Hoffman is set to play Ray Garraty, one of the 100 teenage boys forced to participate in a grueling, annual walking contest where the rules are simple: keep walking, or you are shot. This project, an adaptation that has been in development for decades, will be a physically and emotionally demanding role. The psychological horror and intense drama of King's story will allow Hoffman to delve into a much darker, more intense character than his previous work. He is set to star opposite David Jonsson, and their on-screen chemistry is already a topic of discussion among fans.

3. Old Guy (2024/2025): Comedy with Hollywood Veterans

In the action-comedy film *Old Guy*, Cooper Hoffman shares the screen with Hollywood heavyweights Christoph Waltz and Lucy Liu. The film centers on a retired hitman (Waltz) who is forced back into action, and Hoffman plays a character named Wihlborg. This project demonstrates Hoffman's willingness to take supporting roles alongside established stars, gaining experience in a fast-paced, commercial genre. The film is directed by Simon West, known for action hits like *Con Air* and *Lara Croft: Tomb Raider*.

Exploring Cooper Hoffman's Indie and Future Collaborations

Beyond the major studio releases, Hoffman is also dedicating time to independent cinema and exciting directorial debuts, signaling a commitment to artistic integrity and working with emerging talent.

4. Poetic License (2026): A Directorial Debut

Hoffman is starring in *Poetic License*, the directorial debut of Maude Apatow, known for her acting roles in *Euphoria* and *The King of Staten Island*. The film, which premiered at a major festival, is a significant piece for Hoffman as it showcases his support for new voices in filmmaking. This collaboration with a fellow member of a Hollywood dynasty is a fascinating development, suggesting a network of young artists supporting each other's creative visions.

5. Wildcat (2023): A Family Affair

Released in 2023, but gaining wider attention in 2024, *Wildcat* saw Cooper Hoffman collaborate with Ethan Hawke and his daughter, Maya Hawke, who stars as author Flannery O’Connor. In the film, directed by Ethan Hawke, Cooper Hoffman plays the role of Manley Pointer. The film explores the life and faith of the celebrated Southern Gothic writer, adding a period drama to Hoffman’s growing resume. This role highlights his ability to adapt to different historical settings and complex literary material.

6. The Chaperones & I Want Your Sex (TBA)

Two additional projects hint at his future direction: * The Chaperones: There is buzz about Hoffman potentially reuniting with his *The Long Walk* co-star David Jonsson for this A24 project, directed by India Donaldson. A24 is known for producing critically acclaimed, high-quality independent films, making this a promising potential move. * I Want Your Sex: He is also attached to a starring role in the comeback film by queer cinema icon Gregg Araki, titled *I Want Your Sex*. This project suggests a willingness to explore edgier, more boundary-pushing material.

The Legacy and The Future: Cooper Hoffman's Topical Authority

The shadow of his father, Philip Seymour Hoffman, is one that Cooper is constantly navigating, but his recent film choices clearly establish his own unique topical authority in the industry. He is not simply trading on his name; he is cultivating a career marked by intentional, high-quality projects across multiple genres. The names associated with his work—Paul Thomas Anderson, Stephen King, Jason Reitman, Christoph Waltz, Maude Apatow, and Gregg Araki—are a testament to the respect he has quickly earned from both established legends and the new wave of directors. His filmography is building a strong narrative of a versatile actor capable of handling the demands of a period piece (*Wildcat*), a high-stakes horror lead (*The Long Walk*), and a sharp comedic turn (*Saturday Night*). By taking on the role of Dick Ebersol, a producer who helped launch an institution, and Ray Garraty, a character from a beloved literary work, Cooper Hoffman is actively engaging with major cultural touchstones. This strategic selection of roles ensures that his work remains fresh, relevant, and a constant subject of critical discussion and fan anticipation. His future looks bright, defined not by his lineage, but by his own formidable talent and bold choices.

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