The first images from the upcoming John Madden biopic have arrived, as reported by Deadline, offering a glimpse at Nicolas Cage in the title role of the beloved Raiders head coach. Cage leads a star-studded cast that includes Christian Bale as iconic owner Al Davis, in a film that promises to explore the heart and humor of one of football’s most transformative figures.
Directed by David O. Russell, the biopic will chronicle Madden’s remarkable journey—from his days as head coach of the then-Oakland Raiders to his legendary career in broadcasting, and ultimately his cultural legacy through the Madden NFL video game franchise. Russell penned the screenplay, building off an earlier version written by Cambron Clark.
First Look at John Madden Biopic Reveals Nic Cage as Raiders Head Coach
“Nic 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,” Russell said in a statement to Deadline. “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 Madden in a wildly inventive, cool world of the 1970s.”
The film will also delve into Madden’s decision to step away from coaching due to mounting health concerns, as well as his pivotal role in leading Oakland to a Super Bowl victory. Following his retirement, Madden redefined NFL broadcasting with his charisma and insight, becoming a staple in American households for decades. He later lent his name and voice to the iconic Madden NFL video game series, which remains a cultural touchstone to this day.
Madden passed away in 2021 at the age of 85. A cause of death was not publicly disclosed.
Joining Cage and Bale is an ensemble cast that includes John Mulaney as Trip Hawkins, the founder of Electronic Arts who launched the Madden video game series; Kathryn Hahn as Virginia Madden, John’s wife; and Sienna Miller as Carol Davis, the Raiders’ part-owner.
While anticipation builds, no official release date has been announced for the film.