Nicolas Cage to Portray John Madden in Upcoming Biopic
In a surprising casting choice, Nicolas Cage will star as the legendary NFL coach and broadcaster, John Madden, in a new biopic chronicling the origins of the iconic "Madden NFL" video game franchise. The Hollywood Reporter broke the news, highlighting the film's focus on Madden's multifaceted legacy – as a coach, commentator, and the driving force behind one of gaming's most enduring successes.
The film, timed to coincide with the release of Madden NFL 25, will delve into the creation and phenomenal growth of the Madden NFL game series. The project will explore Madden's collaboration with Electronic Arts in the 1980s, culminating in the release of "John Madden Football" in 1988 – a game that redefined the sports video game landscape and laid the foundation for the franchise's enduring popularity.
Acclaimed director David O. Russell ("The Fighter," "Silver Linings Playbook"), who also penned the screenplay, promises a film that will capture the "joy, humanity, and genius" of John Madden within the vibrant backdrop of the 1970s. Russell's vision aims to present a wildly inventive and engaging portrayal of this American icon.
Madden's impact on football is undeniable. His coaching tenure with the Oakland Raiders in the 1970s yielded multiple Super Bowl victories. His subsequent broadcasting career cemented his status as a beloved national figure, earning him 16 Sports Emmy Awards.
Director Russell praised Cage's casting, stating, "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."
Madden NFL 25 launches August 16, 2024, at 12 p.m. EDT for PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One. For more information on the game, consult our Wiki Guide (link to be inserted here).
