Deadpool & Wolverine team ‘tried to get’ Nicolas Cage to return as Ghost Rider but he said no

In the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Deadpool & Wolverine has emerged as a standout for its plethora of surprise cameos.

However, one notable absence has sparked curiosity among fans: Nicolas Cage’s Ghost Rider.

Recent revelations from the film’s creative team shed light on the efforts to include this iconic character and the challenges that ultimately prevented his return.

During an episode of Entertainment Weekly‘s “Awardist” podcast, Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, and director Shawn Levy discussed their attempts to bring Nicolas Cage back as Ghost Rider.

Reynolds confirmed that Cage’s inclusion was considered, stating, “We had versions of that [sequence], but then as it shook out, you’re sort of looking… We’re trying to make the movie responsibly, as well.”

He added, “We did talk to Nic Cage.”

“We tried to get him, but he was a no-go…. I would’ve loved him.”

The team faced practical constraints, particularly regarding the film’s budget.

Reynolds elaborated, “It’s a big budget. It’s the biggest budget of any of the Deadpool movies, but you want to give yourself as much constraint, which really, I think, facilitates asymmetrical thinking and creativity.”

“Luckily, we got a lot of yeses,” Levy added.

“Mostly because Ryan would just call them directly, he’d often do an ambush FaceTime and put them on the spot.”

Wesley Snipes reprises his role as Blade, Jennifer Garner returns as Elektra, and Chris Evans makes a memorable appearance as Johnny Storm, the Human Torch.

Nicolas Cage first portrayed Johnny Blaze, the stunt motorcyclist who becomes Ghost Rider, in the 2007 film Ghost Rider and its 2011 sequel, Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance.