Nicolas Cage is slated to step into the helmet of John Madden in Amazon MGM’s upcoming biopic, Amazon has confirmed.
First reported by Deadline, the film, which is written and directed by David O. Russell, follows the story of Madden as he transitioned from Oakland Raiders coach to the face of the Madden NFL video games to sports commentator.
“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 quote provided to Deadline. “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.”
Nicolas Cage, widely known and decorated for numerous roles in films such as National Treasure, City of Angels, The Wicker man, and more, most recently portrayed the titular character in Longlegs.
Amazon MGM’s take on Madden’s story was first revealed back in May of 2023, though at the time it was reported that Will Ferrell was being considered for the role of Madden. At the time, the film was based on a script by Cambron Clark, but Russell has since written a new version. The film will be produced by Jason Blumenthal, Steve Tisch, Jonathan Shukat, Matthew Budman, and Russell. David Bloomfield will serve as executive producer.
Rebekah Valentine is a senior reporter for IGN. Got a story tip? Send it to rvalentine@ign.com.
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