Actor Nicolas Cage’s next role will be one near and dear to the hearts of football fans.
Cage will portray legendary NFL coach and commentator John Madden in “Madden,” an upcoming biographical drama directed by David O. Russell.
“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,” O. Russell said in a statement. “Together with the ferocious style, focus, and inspired individualism of Al Davis, owner of the underdog Oakland Raiders, the feature will be about the joy, humanity and genius that was John Madden in a wildly inventive, cool world of the 1970s.”
Madden died Dec. 28, 2021 at the age of 85.
Raised in Daly City, Calif., Madden gained fame in a decade-long stint as the coach of the renegade Oakland Raiders, making it to seven AFC title games and winning the Super Bowl following the 1976 season. He compiled a 103-32-7 regular-season record, and his .759 winning percentage is the best among NFL coaches with more than 100 games.
But it was his work after prematurely retiring as coach at age 42 that made Madden truly a household name. He educated a football nation with his use of the telestrator on broadcasts; entertained millions with his interjections of “Boom!” and “Doink” throughout games; was an omnipresent pitchman selling restaurants, hardware stores and beer; became the face of “Madden NFL Football,” one of the most successful sports video games of all-time; and was a best-selling author.
Most of all, he was the preeminent television sports analyst for most of his three decades calling games, winning an unprecedented 16 Emmy Awards for outstanding sports analyst/personality, and covering 11 Super Bowls for four networks from 1979-2009.
Additional casting for “Madden” will be announced at a later date.
Cage, 60, began acting in 1981. He recently starred in “Longlegs” which has grossed close to $100 million world wide.
Russell is an Academy Award-winning filmmaker who has directed hits such as “American Hustle,” “Silver Linings Playbook” and “The Fighter.”
Nicolas Cage has been cast as legendary NFL coach John Madden in an upcoming biopic that is sure to be a hit with football fans and moviegoers alike. The film will chronicle Madden’s rise to fame as a player, coach, and beloved commentator, capturing the highs and lows of his illustrious career.
Cage, known for his versatile acting skills and ability to embody a wide range of characters, is sure to bring Madden’s larger-than-life personality to the big screen. Madden, who coached the Oakland Raiders to a Super Bowl victory in 1977 and went on to become one of the most recognizable voices in football broadcasting, is a true icon in the world of sports.
The film will delve into Madden’s early years as a standout college player at Cal Poly and his transition to coaching, where he quickly made a name for himself with his innovative strategies and fiery sideline demeanor. Madden’s success on the field led to a successful career in broadcasting, where he became known for his colorful commentary and trademark catchphrases.
Cage’s casting as Madden has already generated buzz among fans, with many excited to see how he will bring the coach’s larger-than-life persona to life on screen. The actor’s dedication to his craft and ability to fully immerse himself in his roles make him a perfect choice to portray Madden, who is known for his passion for the game and larger-than-life personality.
The biopic promises to be a thrilling and emotional journey through Madden’s life and career, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at the man behind the legend. With Cage at the helm and a talented team of filmmakers bringing Madden’s story to life, this film is sure to be a must-see for football fans and movie lovers alike. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project as it develops.