Football and film fans have received their inaugural look at the highly anticipated biopic of NFL icon John Madden, featuring Oscar-winner Nicolas Cage in the titular role. The first teaser for the film, simply titled 'Madden,' offers a glimpse into the project set to hit theatres in November 2025.
Star-Studded Cast Brings Football History to Life
Directed and written by acclaimed filmmaker David O. Russell (The Fighter, American Hustle), the movie promises to chronicle the multifaceted life of the legendary coach, broadcaster, and video game namesake. Cage will be joined by an impressive ensemble cast. Christian Bale is set to portray the formidable and iconic Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis.
The supporting cast includes Kathryn Hahn as Madden's wife, Virginia, John Mulaney as Electronic Arts founder Trip Hawkins, Sienna Miller as Carol Davis, and comedian Shane Gillis in an original role close to the Madden family.
From the Gridiron to the Broadcast Booth
The film's narrative will span Madden's remarkable career, beginning with his Hall of Fame tenure as head coach of the Oakland Raiders. His coaching record remains one of the most dominant in NFL history, with a 103-32-7 regular-season record and a league-best .759 winning percentage among coaches with over 100 games.
After leading the Raiders to a Super Bowl XI victory, Madden seamlessly transitioned into broadcasting, where his exuberant personality and insightful commentary made him a beloved figure for decades. He retired from the broadcast booth following Super Bowl XLIII in 2009. The biopic will also delve into his pivotal role in revolutionizing sports entertainment through the 'Madden NFL' video game franchise, one of the best-selling series of all time.
A Legacy Remembered On and Off the Screen
John Madden passed away in 2021 at the age of 85. His legacy continues to be celebrated, notably during the NFL's Thanksgiving Day broadcasts where his tradition of awarding a 'turducken' to the game's MVP became a beloved holiday staple.
In a statement, director David O. Russell praised his lead actor and the subject's spirit, saying, "Nicolas Cage, one of our greatest and most original actors, will portray the best of the American spirit of originality, fun and determination... the feature will be about the joy, humanity and genius that was John Madden." Cage, who won an Academy Award for Leaving Las Vegas, has recently garnered critical acclaim for roles in films like Pig and The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent.
The teaser, now available online, confirms the film will explore Madden's journey "from Super Bowl glory with the Raiders to revolutionizing the game with Madden NFL." For fans of sports history and cinematic storytelling, 'Madden' is poised to be a major event in late 2025.
