Actor Cast for Lead Role in ‘Madden’ Film

Nicolas Cage has been selected to portray the legendary NFL coach and broadcaster John Madden in the forthcoming sports film, Madden.

Oscar-nominated director David O. Russell will helm the Amazon MGM movie. As reported by several sources, the film will encompass Madden’s coaching and broadcasting careers but mainly concentrate on the creation of the iconic Madden NFL video game franchise.

Initially, when reports about the movie emerged, Will Ferrell was considered Russell’s first choice to portray Madden. Hugh Jackman also reportedly came up in discussions for the role.

Although Cage may not have Ferrell’s star power, he has garnered a cult following by starring in a remarkable range of films, from summer action blockbusters to comedies and B movies. He continues to impress audiences, most recently playing the title role in the 2024 horror film Longlegs.

It’s interesting to note that Madden was in his early 50s when he lent his name to the first John Madden Football game in 1988, and Cage is currently 60 years old. There is a certain resemblance between them.

“Nicolas Cage, one of our greatest and most original actors, will portray the best of the American spirit of originality, fun, and determination in which anything is possible as beloved national legend John Madden,” said Russell in a statement (via Hollywood Reporter). “Together with the ferocious style, focus, and inspired individualism of Al Davis, owner of the underdog Oakland Raiders, the feature will be about the joy, humanity and genius that was John Madden in a wildly inventive, cool world of the 1970s.”

Source: Hollywood Reporter