Nicolas Cage transforms into football legend John Madden in new biopic arriving Thanksgiving 2026

Nicolas Cage is stepping into the role of iconic football coach and broadcaster John Madden in the upcoming Prime Video film Madden, set for release during Thanksgiving 2026.

Directed by David O. Russell, the film traces Madden’s remarkable journey from the sidelines to cultural icon. Madden first gained national recognition as head coach of the Oakland Raiders, guiding the team—owned by Davis—to a Super Bowl victory in 1977. From there, the story follows his unexpected transition into broadcasting and his influence on the groundbreaking Madden NFL video game franchise.

According to the film’s official description, the project is “Inspired by a true story” and chronicles how the football legend moved from championship success with the Raiders to reshaping the sport’s media and gaming landscape.

A newly released teaser offers a first glimpse of Cage portraying the larger-than-life sports figure as he sketches plays across a whiteboard. In the preview, Christian Bale appears as legendary Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis, declaring, “There’s only one John Madden. They didn’t make another one. He is one of a kind. Football wouldn’t be football without him.”

Russell, who also wrote the screenplay, previously described the project as a celebration of Madden’s personality and impact. He said the movie explores “the joy, humanity and genius that was John Madden in a wildly inventive, cool world of the 1970s.”

The ensemble cast includes John Mulaney as EA Sports founder Trip Hawkins, whose collaboration with Madden helped launch the hugely successful football video game series. Kathryn Hahn plays Madden’s wife, Virginia, while Sienna Miller portrays Carol Davis, the wife of Al Davis. Comedian Shane Gillis also appears in the film.

See the trailer for ‘Madden’ – HERE.

Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com