Is Nicolas Cage’s Ghost Rider 3 Still a Possibility?

“Is ‘Ghost Rider 3’ Still a Possibility? Exploring the Chances of Nicolas Cage’s Return as Johnny Blaze”

In the early days of Marvel Comics-based movies, particularly in 2007, the landscape was vastly different from what we see in the 2020s. The quality of these films varied, and unique characters enjoyed the spotlight without the constraints of a shared superhero universe. One such character was Nicolas Cage’s Johnny Blaze, famously known as Ghost Rider, who made his cinematic debut that year. While it may not have been a critical darling or a box office sensation, “Ghost Rider” provided an introduction to the character’s history, coupled with action-packed sequences, drama, and a generous serving of Cage’s signature eccentricity.

Despite not achieving resounding success, “Ghost Rider” garnered enough attention in a cinematic world gradually filling with Marvel adaptations to warrant a sequel. In 2012, “Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance” hit theaters, coinciding with the ascent of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Unfortunately, this second installment struggled both financially and critically, effectively marking the end of one of the last non-MCU Marvel franchises in the film landscape.

Nevertheless, a devoted fanbase continues to hope for the completion of the “Ghost Rider” trilogy. This article explores the prospects of “Ghost Rider 3” and why it hasn’t materialized yet.

Why Hasn’t “Ghost Rider 3” Happened Yet?

The most immediate question surrounding “Ghost Rider 3” is why it hasn’t become a reality. It’s crucial to recall that both “Ghost Rider” films fell short of being runaway hits. The first installment, according to The Numbers, earned approximately $229 million against a $110 million budget, while “Spirit of Vengeance” brought in $149 million with a budget ranging from $57 million to $75 million. Although neither film resulted in financial losses, they also didn’t emerge as major blockbusters.

Aside from financial struggles and lukewarm critical reception, the key factor to remember is that the film rights to Ghost Rider reverted to Marvel Studios in early 2013, shortly after the release of “Spirit of Vengeance.” This meant that Marvel Studios had full creative control over Johnny Blaze and related characters, and the MCU’s success made it logical for Marvel to focus on their own interconnected universe, leaving behind the non-MCU “Ghost Rider” franchise.

Nicolas Cage’s Stance on “Ghost Rider 3”

Around the time of “Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance’s” release, director Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor discussed the possibility of a third film in the series. Neveldine stated that Nicolas Cage expressed interest in returning for “Ghost Rider 3.” However, Cage’s own comments at that time suggested otherwise. In a 2013 interview with Collider, Cage indicated that he was unlikely to reprise his role as Ghost Rider for a third installment. He stated, “I’ve said what I have to say. I don’t want to say never…anything’s possible. But I doubt, highly, that I would be in a third installment of that.”

Cage’s remarks made it clear that if “Ghost Rider 3” were to materialize, it would likely feature a different actor in the role of Johnny Blaze.

Potential Storylines for “Ghost Rider 3”

With over a decade having passed since the release of “Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance,” “Ghost Rider 3” could explore various narrative directions. To accommodate the noticeably aged actors, a time jump could be employed. This would present an older, experienced Johnny Blaze facing new supernatural threats and protecting Earth from corruption or destruction. Potential villains such as Nightmare or Lucifer could take center stage, considering Mephisto’s apparent defeat in “Spirit of Vengeance.”

Additionally, “Ghost Rider 3” could shine a brighter spotlight on Danny Ketch, introduced in “Spirit of Vengeance” and portrayed by Fergus Riordan. In a time-jump scenario, an adult Ketch could join Blaze on what might be his final adventure as Ghost Rider. The story could culminate with Blaze passing the Ghost Rider mantle to Ketch, as it often transpires in the comics.

Casting and Characters

If “Ghost Rider 3” were to become a reality, the return of Nicolas Cage should be a top priority. Cage’s memorable performances in the previous films remain iconic elements of the franchise. Additionally, characters like Carter Slade (Sam Elliot) and Roxanne Simpson (Eva Mendes) could reprise their roles to provide closure to the trilogy.

As for the villain, while a new antagonist would be ideal for “Ghost Rider 3,” the return of Mephisto remains possible. Both Peter Fonda and Ciarán Hinds have portrayed the character, and either Hinds could reprise the role or a new actor could take over. Furthermore, casting choices for adult Danny Ketch, if included in the plot, would need to be considered.

While “Ghost Rider 3” may not be entirely impossible, it remains unlikely given the passage of time, the complexities of character rights, and the shifting landscape of superhero cinema.

We bring out some of the most well-known Disney collection, all of which are available at reasonable costs. Visit our link now if you are interested in the Disney collection

Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Pluto