Ryan Gosling has been confirmed as the new Ghost Rider in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and fans have united behind one wish: a cameo from Nicolas Cage.
The 45-year-old actor was announced at San Diego Comic-Con on Saturday (25th July) during Marvel Studios' Hall H presentation. His first outing as the flame-skulled motorcyclist will be in the standalone film Ghost Rider, set for 2028 and directed by Shawn Levy.
Fans React to Casting News
Marvel shared the announcement on social media, prompting reactions and expectations. Many fans expressed disappointment that Gosling's casting likely rules out Nicolas Cage, who played Ghost Rider in the 2007 film and its 2012 sequel. However, numerous commenters suggested they would be satisfied with a cameo from Cage in the 2028 release as a tribute to his earlier portrayal.
One fan said: "Without Nic Cage?" Another replied: "I would bet he makes a cameo." A third commented: "Could be a fire cameo in the future!" Some lamented that no one would ever top Cage, but others noted that Cage is now "too old" for the role, especially if Marvel plans multiple films. Cage already voices Spider-Man Noir in the animated Spider-Man series within the MCU.
Details on Gosling's Ghost Rider
Gosling will play Johnny Blaze, the original incarnation. In the comics, stunt motorcyclist Blaze makes a pact with a demon (later revealed as Mephisto) to save his foster father, becoming engulfed in hellfire and transforming into a flaming skull when evil is present.
The upcoming film will be the character's first theatrical release under Marvel Studios, though no further details have been revealed. Director Shawn Levy praised Gosling at Comic-Con, saying: "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!"
