Nicolas Cage to Portray John Madden in New Biopic

Hollywood's Nicolas Cage is set to star as legendary NFL coach and commentator John Madden in an upcoming biopic chronicling the origins of the iconic "Madden NFL" video game franchise. The film will explore Madden's multifaceted career, highlighting his impact on football both on and off the field.

The Hollywood Reporter broke the news, revealing the movie will delve into the creation and explosive success of the Madden NFL games. 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 a cultural touchstone.

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 backdrop of the 1970s."

John Madden's legacy extends far beyond the video game. His coaching career with the Oakland Raiders saw multiple Super Bowl victories, and his transition to broadcasting cemented his status as a beloved national figure, earning him 16 Sports Emmy Awards.

Director Russell lauded Cage's casting, stating, "Nicolas Cage, a truly unique and gifted actor, will embody the American spirit of innovation, fun, and determination that defined John Madden's remarkable life."

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 gameplay tips and more, check out our comprehensive Wiki Guide (link below)!