Madden NFL Icon \"John Madden\" to be Portrayed by Nicolas Cage in Biopic

Nicolas Cage to Play John Madden in New Biopic

In a surprising casting choice, acclaimed actor Nicolas Cage will portray legendary NFL coach and broadcaster John Madden in an upcoming biopic chronicling the origins of the iconic "Madden NFL" video game franchise.

NFL Legend John Madden to Star in Nicolas Cage Biopic

A Look at the Genesis of Madden NFL

The Hollywood Reporter broke the news that Nicolas Cage will take on the role of the legendary John Madden. The film will explore Madden's multifaceted career, highlighting his impact not just as a coach and commentator, but also as the driving force behind one of the most successful sports video game franchises in history.

The announcement coincides with the release of Madden NFL 25. The movie will delve into the creation and phenomenal success of the Madden NFL video game series. Madden collaborated with Electronic Arts in the 1980s, resulting in a football simulation game that became a cultural phenomenon after its 1988 debut as "John Madden Football," laying the foundation for the enduring Madden NFL franchise.

Acclaimed director David O. Russell ("The Fighter," "Silver Linings Playbook") will helm the project, having also penned the screenplay. Russell describes the film as capturing "the joy, humanity, and genius of John Madden within the vibrant and inventive world of the 1970s."

John Madden's influence on football is undeniable, spanning decades. As head coach of the Oakland Raiders in the 1970s, he led the team to multiple Super Bowl wins. His broadcasting career cemented his status as a beloved national figure, earning him 16 Sports Emmy Awards.

With Nicolas Cage in the leading role, audiences can anticipate a performance that embodies Madden's dynamic personality. Director Russell stated, "Nicolas Cage, one of our most unique and gifted actors, will portray the quintessential American spirit of ingenuity, fun, and determination – embodying the spirit of John Madden, a beloved national icon who proved that anything is possible."

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 on the game and gameplay strategies, check out our Wiki Guide (link below)!