Ryan Gosling and Will Ferrell to star in action-comedy 'Tough Guys' —Here's what's known

Hollywood's most unlikely duo is ready to flip the script. Ryan Gosling and Will Ferrell are officially attached to star in "Tough Guys," a new action-comedy in development at Amazon MGM Studios, sources shared with Deadline. And if the concept is anything to go by, this could be one of the wildest rides of their careers.

Written as a spec by Toronto-born writer and producer Daniel Gold, "Tough Guys" tells the story of two career henchmen who are done taking orders and punches. Tired of being seen as expendable muscle, they decide to escape the criminal underworld and rewrite the rules. 

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This premise feels tailor-made for the contrasting comic energies of Gosling and Ferrell. Gosling, fresh off his scene-stealing, Oscar-nominated turn as Ken in "Barbie," has proven he can do both serious and silly with equal style. Ferrell, long hailed as one of the comedy GOATs, has recently been expanding his portfolio with projects like "You're Cordially Invited" and "Judgment Day" at Amazon MGM, and the upcoming Netflix comedy series "Golf."

Gold's original script was reportedly a hot item, thanks to its sharp dialogue, high-octane set pieces, and genre-flipping tone. While his name might not be as instantly recognizable as his leads, Gold has serious comedy cred. He was a major creative force behind the hit Netflix/CBC show "Workin' Moms," serving as supervising producer and on-set writer for all seven seasons. That blend of on-the-ground storytelling and long-form development experience suggests "Tough Guys" is in good hands.

A Bold Swing for Amazon MGM Studios

For Amazon MGM, this project is a strategic power play. Both Gosling and Ferrell bring strong audience appeal across demographics, and the project hits the sweet spot of action and comedy that streaming viewers increasingly crave. With titles like "The Boys," and "Upload" continuing to dominate, Amazon has proven it can serve genre fans. "Tough Guys" is another move to cement that status, this time with a comic edge.

In the current Hollywood landscape, where IP-driven blockbusters often overshadow original stories, this spec script getting a greenlight—and two A-listers attached—is something worth celebrating. It also reflects a growing appetite for character-driven action comedies that don't take themselves too seriously.

A Potential Franchise in the Making?

If the chemistry between Gosling and Ferrell hits, "Tough Guys" could easily launch a franchise. The setup practically begs for sequels or at least a limited series spinoff. 

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No director has been announced yet, but with the pedigree already involved, don't be surprised if a major name signs on soon. The project is still in early development, but momentum is clearly building. Gosling and Ferrell's agents, CAA, UTA, Mosaic, and others, have been quietly shopping the package, and it looks like Amazon MGM is all in.

Production timelines haven't been made public, but with both actors booked and busy, it's likely "Tough Guys" will shoot in 2025. Ferrell has multiple projects already stacked, while Gosling's name continues to be linked with big-budget fare across genres.

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But if they carve out time for this one, it could become a standout in both of their careers. Not only does the concept flip genre tropes in fresh ways, but it also gives both actors space to play against type. Gosling as the deadpan heavy with a heart, and Ferrell as the chaotic sidekick-turned-mastermind.