John Goodman is back in theatres in Digger, the new film from director Alejandro G.
Iñárritu starring Tom Cruise.
The film opened across North America on October 2, 2026, and gives Goodman a supporting role in a large-scale story about power, disaster and the effort to control a crisis created by human ambition.
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John Goodman plays President Compson
In Digger, Goodman plays President Compson, joining a cast that includes Cruise, Riz Ahmed, Sandra Hüller, Jesse Plemons, Michael Stuhlbarg, Sophie Wilde and Emma D’Arcy.
The film centres on Digger Rockwell, played by Cruise, a powerful figure who sets out to prove that he can save humanity after a disaster linked to one of his own projects.
Warner Bros. and Legendary describe the movie as an original film directed by Iñárritu and released in theatres and IMAX.
For Goodman, the role adds another prominent film credit to a career that has moved between television comedy, prestige drama, animation and major studio productions.
Goodman appears alongside Tom Cruise during release week
Goodman is scheduled to appear on Live with Kelly and Mark on October 6 to discuss Digger.
The programme’s official guest listing places him on the same week’s lineup as comedian Bill Burr.
The appearance follows premieres in London and Los Angeles, where Goodman attended events supporting the film.
His public appearances have also renewed attention on his substantial weight loss and changed appearance, although the actor’s current work remains the primary reason for his promotional schedule.
Goodman has previously spoken publicly about his health and lifestyle changes, including quitting alcohol and smoking.
Those older comments should not be treated as a current medical update, and no new diagnosis or health emergency has been announced in connection with Digger.
What Digger is about
Digger is Iñárritu’s latest original feature and marks a change of pace for Cruise, who is best known in recent years for action franchises and large-scale stunt work.
The film presents Cruise as an eccentric oil magnate confronting the consequences of a disaster he may have helped create.
Goodman’s President Compson is part of the political world surrounding that crisis, placing the actor in a role that draws on his long experience playing authoritative, conflicted and often sharply comic figures.
The movie runs for just over two hours and is being shown in standard theatres and IMAX.
Its official release began internationally on September 30, followed by the North American opening on October 2.
Why the role matters in Goodman’s career
Goodman remains closely associated with Dan Conner from Roseanne and The Conners, as well as film roles in The Big Lebowski, O Brother, Where Art Thou?, Monsters, Inc. and Argo.
His work in Digger continues a pattern of moving between mainstream entertainment and more unconventional projects.
The film also reunites him with the kind of ensemble-driven production in which he has frequently been used as a grounding presence beside more theatrical or larger-than-life performers.
As of October 6, 2026, there is no indication that Goodman is stepping away from acting.
His confirmed promotional appearance and the release of Digger point instead to an active period for the 74-year-old actor.
What comes next
Goodman’s immediate schedule is focused on promoting Digger following its theatrical release.
He is also attached to additional film projects, including the horror thriller Skeletons, which was reported in July as a future project with Brie Larson.
The timing and distribution details for that film may change as production and release plans develop.
For audiences discovering Goodman through the new film, Digger offers a current showcase for an actor whose career has remained unusually broad, spanning sitcoms, awards-season films, animation, stage work and politically charged satire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who does John Goodman play in Digger?
John Goodman plays President Compson in Digger, alongside Tom Cruise and an ensemble cast.
When was Digger released in Canada and the United States?
Digger opened across North America on October 2, 2026, with international releases beginning on September 30.
Who directed Digger?
Digger was directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, who also co-wrote the film.
Is John Goodman appearing on Live with Kelly and Mark?
Yes. The programme’s official schedule lists John Goodman as a guest on October 6, 2026, to discuss Digger.
Has John Goodman retired from acting?
No. His appearance in Digger and his scheduled promotional work indicate that he remains active as an actor.
Fact-Checked: Key release, cast and appearance details were checked against the official Digger website and the official Live with Kelly and Mark listings.
Disclaimer: Film release schedules and future project details can change, so viewers should check official listings for the latest information.