Ryan Gosling is officially entering the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
During Marvel Studios' highly anticipated Hall H presentation at San Diego Comic-Con on Saturday, July 25, fans learned that the Oscar-nominated actor will take on the role of Ghost Rider in an upcoming standalone film. The announcement sparked loud cheers inside the packed convention hall as Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige confirmed the casting.
The role marks a major first for Gosling, who has never appeared in a superhero or comic book movie despite years of fan speculation about which franchise he might eventually join.
Ryan Gosling Finally Gets His Marvel Moment
Taking the stage alongside Feige, Gosling shared his excitement about stepping into the leather jacket of one of Marvel's most beloved antiheroes.
"As you know, this is a character I've wanted to play for a long time," Gosling told the crowd.
Rumors about Gosling joining the MCU have circulated for years, with fans previously suggesting he could play everyone from Nova to Doctor Doom. But it turns out Ghost Rider was the role he had his eye on all along.
Ghost Rider, known for his flaming skull and supernatural abilities, remains one of Marvel's most recognizable characters. The character first debuted in Marvel comics in 1972 and has become a fan favorite thanks to his darker, horror-inspired storylines.
A New Era for Ghost Rider
The character was previously brought to life by Nicolas Cage in 2007's Ghost Rider. Cage starred as motorcycle stunt performer Johnny Blaze, who makes a deal with the devil and transforms into the fiery vigilante.
Interestingly, the film also featured Eva Mendes, Gosling's longtime partner, as Johnny's love interest, Roxanne Simpson.
© FilmMagicCage returned for 2011's Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance, though Mendes did not reprise her role for the sequel. While the films developed a cult following over the years, Marvel fans have long hoped to see Ghost Rider make the jump into the MCU.
Now, Gosling will usher in a brand-new chapter for the character under Marvel Studios.
Shawn Levy Is Back Behind the Camera
Directing the project is Shawn Levy, who is no stranger to blockbuster franchises. Levy previously helmed the massive 2024 hit Deadpool & Wolverine and recently collaborated with Gosling on the upcoming Star Wars: Starfighter.
Appearing alongside Gosling and Feige at Comic-Con, Levy reflected on returning to Hall H.
© Amy Sussman"I'm having the greatest flashback vibes here, because I was here two years ago when we showed Deadpool & Wolverine," Levy said. "I'll never forget that night, because I was introduced to the greatest fans. Gosling is the absolute s---. I say that with tremendous respect. We spent a lot of time last year making Starfighter, and the opportunity as Ryan started talking about this character, I was like, 'Bro let's ride.' We'll see you in 2028!"
When Will Ghost Rider Hit Theaters?
Marvel has yet to announce an official release date for Ghost Rider, though Levy's "See you in 2028" comment suggests fans could be waiting a few more years before seeing Gosling's flaming-skull transformation on the big screen.
Until then, Marvel fans can celebrate one thing: Ryan Gosling is finally joining the MCU, and he's bringing Ghost Rider back from the shadows.
