Nicolas Cage to Play John Madden in New Biopic

In a surprising casting choice, Nicolas Cage will portray legendary NFL coach and commentator John Madden in an upcoming biopic chronicling the origins of the wildly popular "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 a cultural phenomenon.

The film, timed to coincide with the release of Madden NFL 25, will delve into the creation and explosive success of the game series. Madden's collaboration with Electronic Arts in the 1980s led to the 1988 release of "John Madden Football," a game that would redefine the sports video game landscape and become the foundation of the enduring Madden NFL franchise.

Acclaimed director David O. Russell ("The Fighter," "Silver Linings Playbook"), who also penned the script, promises a film that captures the "joy, humanity, and genius" of John Madden within the vibrant backdrop of the 1970s.

Madden's impact on football is undeniable. His coaching tenure with the Oakland Raiders in the 1970s resulted in numerous Super Bowl wins. 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 that the actor will embody "the best of the American spirit of originality, fun, and determination" in his portrayal of the iconic John Madden.

Madden NFL 25 launches August 16, 2024, at 12 p.m. EDT on PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One. For more information on the game, check out our Wiki Guide (link below)!