Cage to Play Madden in Upcoming Biopic

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In a surprising casting announcement, Hollywood superstar Nicolas Cage is set to portray legendary NFL coach and broadcaster John Madden in a new biopic based on the origin story of “Madden NFL.”

NFL Legend Madden to be Portrayed by Nicolas Cage in BiopicWill Tackle the Origins of Madden NFL

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As reported today by news outlet The Hollywood Reporter, Hollywood legend Nicolas Cage is slated to portray legendary NFL coach and broadcaster John Madden in a new biographical film based on the origin story of “Madden NFL.” The film will examine Madden’s influence not only as a football coach and commentator but also as the inspiration for one of the most successful sports video game franchises ever, Madden NFL.

This news arrives during the launch week of the latest entry in the video game series, Madden NFL 25. According to the news outlet, the movie will explore the creation and ascent of the Madden NFL video game series. Partnering with Electronic Arts in the 1980s, Madden aided in developing a football simulation game, which became a cultural phenomenon following its release in 1988 under the title "John Madden Football." This would evolve into what is now recognized as the Madden NFL series.

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The movie will be directed by David O. Russell, the celebrated filmmaker known for "The Fighter" and "Silver Linings Playbook." Russell, who also penned the screenplay, described the film as tackling the "joy, humanity and genius that was John Madden in a wildly inventive, cool world of the 1970s."

John Madden’s impact on football spans decades. As the head coach of the Oakland Raiders in the 1970s, he guided the team to multiple Super Bowl victories. Following his coaching career, he transitioned into broadcasting, where he became a cherished voice for America, earning 16 Sports Emmy Awards throughout the years.

With Nicolas Cage in the starring role, audiences can anticipate a performance that captures Madden’s vibrant energy. "Nicolas Cage, one of our greatest and most original actors, will portray the best of the American spirit of originality, fun, and determination in which anything is possible as beloved national legend John Madden," said director Russell in a statement.

Madden NFL 25 is due to be released on August 16, 2024 at 12 p.m. EDT for the PC, the PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and the Xbox One. If you're interested in learning more about the game and how to best play, check out our Wiki Guide at the link below!