What did Nicolas Cage say about Ryan Gosling becoming the next ‘Ghost Rider’ nearly 20 years after his own portrayal?

Eva Mendes appeared alongside Cage in the original 2007 film and has supported her husband’s casting

Nicolas Cage has shared his support for Ryan Gosling taking on the role of Ghost Rider, nearly 20 years after portraying the Marvel character himself.

Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter at the premiere of his new film Madden on November 4, Cage praised Gosling and said he was looking forward to seeing his interpretation of the supernatural superhero.

“Ryan’s going to do his thing with it and I’m looking forward to seeing it,” Cage said. He also revealed that the pair had maintained contact and shared positive conversations.

“Ryan knows how I feel about him as an actor; we’ve had nice conversations and we stay in touch,” he added, wishing Gosling the best with the project.

Cage first played Johnny Blaze, the motorcycle stuntman who becomes a bounty hunter of evil demons, in 2007’s Ghost Rider. He returned for the 2012 sequel, Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance.

Gosling’s casting was announced by Marvel Studios at Comic-Con in July 2026. The actor previously expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity, saying Ghost Rider was a character he had wanted to play for a long time.

The upcoming film is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on July 28, 2028, with Shawn Levy attached as director. Connor Storrie, known for Heated Rivalry, is reportedly in talks to play the villain, although his involvement has not been confirmed.

The casting also has a personal connection to the original film. Gosling’s wife, Eva Mendes, starred opposite Cage in the 2007 adaptation and has publicly supported her husband taking on the role.

Meanwhile, Cage is portraying legendary American football coach John Madden in Madden, directed by David O Russell. The film is scheduled for a limited theatrical release before beginning streaming on Prime Video on November 18.