In January 2016, it was reported that NBC gave the pilot order for Powerless.[9][10] In February 2016, the main cast was announced: Vanessa Hudgens as the main character, Emily Locke,[3] Danny Pudi as Teddy, Alan Tudyk as Van and Christina Kirk as Jackie.[4] In July 2016, Ron Funches joined the cast as Ron.[5] In August 2016, it was reported that Ben Queen had departed as showrunner.[11]