In an almost epic crossover, Nicolas Cage was reportedly close to reprising his role as Ghost Rider in the upcoming Deadpool & Wolverine film. According to a recent report from Collider, the idea of bringing Cage back as the fiery anti-hero was seriously considered but ultimately didn’t come to fruition. As a fan of both the Ghost Rider movies and Cage’s eccentric charm, this news is both tantalising and a bit disappointing.
Nicolas Cage first embodied Johnny Blaze, the stunt motorcyclist turned demonic vigilante, in the 2007 film Ghost Rider and its 2011 sequel Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance. His over-the-top performance and the film’s dark, supernatural themes gained a cult following despite mixed critical reception. The possibility of seeing Cage’s Ghost Rider alongside Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool and Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine in the MCU’s expanding multiverse was an exciting prospect for fans.
Nicolas Cage’s Almost-Cameo
Credit: Marvel
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The report from Collider reveals that Ryan Reynolds and Nicolas Cage explored the idea of including Cage’s Ghost Rider in Deadpool & Wolverine. Here’s what Ryan Reynolds responded when he was asked whether Nicolas Cage was ever approached about cameoing in Deadpool & Wolverine as his version of Ghost Rider:
Yes. [Things] Came to a conversation for sure. Yeah, but no.
Given the MCU’s current fascination with the multiverse, this would have been a perfect opportunity to reintroduce Ghost Rider in a new context. Fans have already seen the multiverse concept successfully utilised in films like Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness and Spider-Man: No Way Home, where characters from different cinematic universes collide in thrilling ways.
Bringing back Cage as Ghost Rider could have added a unique and nostalgic twist to the film. His intense portrayal of Johnny Blaze, combined with the chaotic and irreverent energy of Deadpool, would have created a dynamic and entertaining mix. However, for reasons that remain unclear, this potential crossover was shelved, leaving fans to wonder what might have been.
Why It Didn’t Happen
Credit: 20th Century Studios
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While the exact reasons for Cage’s absence in Deadpool & Wolverine are not detailed, it’s likely a combination of scheduling conflicts, creative decisions, and the complex logistics of managing multiple characters and storylines. Integrating a character as distinctive and complex as Ghost Rider requires careful planning to ensure it fits seamlessly within the narrative.
Additionally, Marvel Studios might be saving Ghost Rider for a different project, one where the character can take centre stage rather than be a part of an ensemble. With rumours of new Ghost Rider projects swirling, it’s possible that Cage’s Johnny Blaze could still return in a more significant capacity, potentially even leading his own film or series within the MCU.
The Impact on the MCU
Credit: 20th Century Studios
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The potential return of Nicolas Cage as Ghost Rider, even in a cameo, highlights the MCU’s willingness to embrace its past and incorporate beloved characters from previous film adaptations. This approach not only honours the legacy of these characters but also introduces them to a new generation of fans within the larger MCU framework.
While Cage’s Ghost Rider didn’t make it into Deadpool & Wolverine, the film itself promises to be an exciting and unconventional addition to the MCU. The combination of Ryan Reynolds’ irreverent Deadpool and Hugh Jackman’s iconic Wolverine is already generating significant buzz. Adding a character like Ghost Rider would have amplified the excitement, but the film will undoubtedly still deliver plenty of action, humour, and surprises.
Final Thoughts on Nicolas Cage’s Ghost Rider
Credit: Marvel
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The news that Nicolas Cage almost returned as Ghost Rider in Deadpool & Wolverine is a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes decisions that shape the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While it’s disappointing that this crossover didn’t happen, it also leaves the door open for future possibilities. Cage’s unique take on Johnny Blaze has left a lasting impact, and the potential for his return in another Marvel project remains an exciting prospect.
As a fan, I can’t help but imagine the electrifying scenes that could have unfolded with Cage’s Ghost Rider joining forces with Deadpool and Wolverine. While we might not get to see that particular team-up, the expanding multiverse ensures that anything is possible in the MCU. Here’s hoping that Nicolas Cage’s Ghost Rider gets another chance to burn bright in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
What are your thoughts on Nicolas Cage almost returning as Ghost Rider? Share your excitement and theories in the comments below!
