Nicolas Cage to Portray John Madden in Upcoming Biopic

Hollywood's Nicolas Cage is set to star as the legendary NFL coach and commentator, John Madden, in a new biopic chronicling the origins of the iconic "Madden NFL" video game franchise. This exciting casting announcement was made by The Hollywood Reporter.

The film will explore Madden's multifaceted legacy, highlighting his achievements as a football coach and broadcaster, and his pivotal role in creating one of the most successful sports video game franchises in history.

The movie, 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 development of a football simulation game that, upon its 1988 release as "John Madden Football," quickly became a cultural phenomenon.

Acclaimed director David O. Russell ("The Fighter," "Silver Linings Playbook"), who also penned the screenplay, describes the film as a celebration of "the joy, humanity, and genius of John Madden, set against the vibrant backdrop of the 1970s."

Madden's impact on football is undeniable. As coach of the Oakland Raiders, he led them to multiple Super Bowl victories. His broadcasting career solidified his status as a beloved national figure, earning him 16 Sports Emmy Awards.

Director Russell stated, "Nicolas Cage, one of our greatest and most original actors, will embody the quintessential American spirit of innovation, fun, and determination—the spirit that made John Madden a beloved national legend."

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 below).