Will Ferrell Sets His Sights On The NFL For His Next Major Movie
Will Ferrell will play John Madden in a new biopic.
Will Ferrell, renowned for showcasing his passion for sports through his film roles, has depicted various sports characters on the silver screen, including a NASCAR driver in Talladega Nights, a figure skater in Blades of Glory, and a basketball player in Semi-Pro. Next, the former Saturday Night Live cast member is set to embrace the sport held dearest by America – football. Deadline reports that the Elf star is taking on the role of the legendary sports figure John Madden in the upcoming theatrical feature Madden.
The process of developing Madden had begun long before the decision to cast Will Ferrell was made. The film is under the guidance of esteemed director David O. Russell, celebrated for his acclaimed films like American Hustle, Silver Linings Playbook, and Amsterdam. The movie seeks to narrate the fascinating story of NFL legend John Madden, from his days leading the Raiders to Super Bowl glory to his transition into television, ultimately leading to the creation of one of the most iconic video game franchises.
Currently, Will Ferrell is the only actor announced for the film. The film’s production is being handled by a team consisting of Todd Black from Escape Artists, Jonathan Shukat, Jason Blumenthal, and Steve Tisch, who also co-owns the New York Giants. With the movie centered around one of football’s most cherished figures, it’s expected to garner the NFL’s support.
Will Ferrell is a brilliant choice for the portrayal of John Madden, with his remarkable talent for comedic timing and his ability to fully embody the characters he plays. His long history of playing sports-related roles, coupled with his charisma, will undoubtedly serve him well in channeling the energetic and enthusiastic spirit of the NFL icon. While his fame predominantly stems from comedic roles, Ferrell has repeatedly demonstrated that he is well-equipped to handle roles of a more serious nature.
In Stranger than Fiction, Will Ferrell skillfully portrayed an IRS auditor trapped in a novelist’s plot. In Everything Must Go, he took on the role of a man at his lowest point, again proving his capacity to convey deeper emotions and handle complex characters. Naturally, we’re looking forward to seeing how the 55-year-old star brings John Madden to life in Madden.
Will Ferrell’s most recent work includes starring alongside Ryan Reynolds in the holiday film Spirited and appearing in the biographical series The Shrink Next Door, both of which are exclusives on Apple TV+. This July, Ferrell is set to depict the CEO of Mattel in the eagerly awaited Barbie movie featuring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling. Then, in August, he’ll lend his voice to the character of Reggie, a Border Terrier, in the comedy film Strays.
Further out, Will Ferrell is attached to star in a slew of other films, including the Nicholas Stoller-directed comedy You’re Cordially Invited, Boy Band, also starring Ryan Reynolds, and Gus Van Sant’s The Prince of Fashion. Adding to his roster of sports-themed projects, Ferrell has also secured a role in an Untitled Golf Project. The upcoming series will center on a professional golfer as he becomes the face of a new controversial league.
