Ryan Reynolds Tried to Cast Nicolas Cage as Ghost Rider in Deadpool and Wolverine Film
Ryan Reynolds disclosed that he tried to cast Nicolas Cage in Deadpool & Wolverine as Ghost Rider but received a negative response. In an interview, he mentioned that many Marvel heroes were considered for an early fight sequence, including Blade and Daredevil. Despite Cage's refusal, several stars accepted roles in the film, attributing this success to Reynolds' direct approach.
Ryan Reynolds has disclosed that he tried to bring Nicolas Cage on board for the Deadpool & Wolverine project as Ghost Rider. In a recent interview, he elaborated on this proposal but confirmed that Cage ultimately declined the offer.
Reynolds' Insights on Nicolas Cage's Involvement
During an appearance on Entertainment Weekly's Awardist podcast, Ryan Reynolds, 48, shared his enthusiasm for including Nicolas Cage, 60, in the Deadpool & Wolverine film. Reynolds recounted pitching the idea to Cage but indicated that the actor chose not to participate. Cage famously portrayed the Marvel character in 'Ghost Rider' in 2007 and reprised the role in the 2011 sequel, 'Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance.'
Early Concepts for the Deadpool Corps. Fight Scene
Reynolds and Marvel concept artist Rodney Fuentebella discussed how Ghost Rider was featured among a number of Marvel characters in initial illustrations for a significant fight sequence in the film. This scene involved a clash between multiple variants of Deadpool, alongside other notable characters such as Wade Wilson (Reynolds), Logan (Hugh Jackman), and Blade (Wesley Snipes).
Shifts During Production
Fuentebella noted that these ideas were part of the film's early stages, where much revision took place. Reynolds emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance during production, citing the need to be responsible with the film's substantial budget. He hinted that excessive time and funds can hinder creative thinking, leading to the decision to scale back certain elements.
Casting Highlights and Director's Praise
Despite Cage's decline, Reynolds praised the successful recruitment of numerous stars for the film. Director Shawn Levy acknowledged Reynolds' direct engagement with potential cast members, which often included spontaneous FaceTime calls that caught them off guard. Confirmed cast members included notable names such as Wesley Snipes, Jennifer Garner, Chris Evans, Henry Cavill, Channing Tatum, and Dafne Keen.
Future Plans for Reynolds
In a recent update, Reynolds mentioned his intentions to work on a non-Marvel film that would reunite him with Hugh Jackman and director Shawn Levy. He remarked on his current focus on writing during an interview with Variety, although he refrained from providing further details about this upcoming project.
