Nicolas Cage Reacts to Ryan Gosling Taking Over as Ghost Rider in the MCU

When Disney acquired 20th Century Fox, it opened the door for Marvel Studios to bring several beloved characters from the Fox era into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. That crossover became a reality in 2024’s Deadpool & Wolverine, which featured appearances from Chris Evans’ Human Torch, Jennifer Garner’s Elektra, and Wesley Snipes’ Blade.

One notable omission, however, was Nicolas Cage’s Ghost Rider. The actor played Johnny Blaze in two films released before the Marvel Cinematic Universe officially launched, but with Ryan Gosling now set to take over the role, Cage is sharing his thoughts on the casting.

Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter, Cage offered his support for Gosling and expressed excitement about seeing his interpretation of the supernatural Marvel hero.

“Ryan’s going to do his thing with it and I’m looking forward to seeing it. Ryan knows how I feel about him as an actor; we’ve had nice conversations and we stay in touch. I was happy for him and wished him best of luck on his adventures and I look forward to seeing the movie.”

Cage first portrayed Ghost Rider in the 2007 film, which arrived before the MCU began with Iron Man. At the time, Marvel adaptations were still finding their footing, with Fox attempting to build its own superhero lineup through movies like Daredevil, Fantastic Four, and Elektra.

Cage returned as Johnny Blaze in 2012’s Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance, directed by Crank filmmakers Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor. The sequel embraced a more horror-influenced approach to the character, but it failed to make a significant impact with critics or audiences.

Ghost Rider’s Journey to the MCU

Ghost Rider eventually made his way into the MCU through Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., although the series featured Robbie Reyes rather than Johnny Blaze. Gabriel Luna portrayed the character, with plans for a standalone series that ultimately failed to move forward following complications surrounding the project.

While Cage appears to have moved on from Johnny Blaze, he has continued exploring comic book adaptations. The actor recently took on another superhero-related role in Prime Video’s Spider-Noir.

Ryan Gosling is now preparing to bring Ghost Rider to the big screen, with Shawn Levy attached to direct. The film is currently scheduled to arrive in theaters on July 28, 2028.

Cage may not be returning as the Spirit of Vengeance, but he has given Gosling his blessing to make the character his own.