Ryan Gosling will play Ghost Rider in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), and fans all have the same wish for his upcoming film debut. The 45-year-old actor is joining the MCU as the flaming motorcyclist, with his standalone film Ghost Rider set for 2028, directed by Shawn Levy.
Fans Call for Nicolas Cage Cameo
Many fans of the Ghost Rider character expressed a desire to see Nicolas Cage, who played the role in the 2007 film and its 2012 sequel, make a cameo appearance in the new film. On social media, several commenters lamented that Cage would not reprise the role but hoped for an homage. One person said: "I would bet he makes a cameo," while another posted: "Could be a fire cameo in the future!" Some fans argued Cage is "too old" for a multi-film commitment, especially since he already voices Spider-Man Noir in the MCU animated Spider-Verse films.
Casting Announcement at Comic-Con
The announcement was made at San Diego Comic-Con on July 25, 2026, during Marvel Studios' Hall H presentation. Marvel later shared the news on social media, confirming Gosling's role and the 2028 release date. Speaking at Comic-Con, director Shawn Levy said: "Gosling is the absolute s***. I say that with tremendous respect. We spent a lot of time last year making Starfighter, and [when] Ryan started talking about this character, I was like, 'Bro, let's ride.' We'll see you in 2028!"
Ghost Rider's MCU Debut
Gosling's portrayal will see him take on the original version of the superhero, Johnny Blaze. In the comics, the stunt motorcyclist gives his soul to an arch-demon named Mephisto to save his foster father, leading to his flaming skull transformation. The upcoming film will be the character's first theatrical release under the Marvel Studios banner. No further details about the project have been revealed.
