MCU’s Ghost Rider Casting Rumors
Reputable scooper @MyTimeToShineHello posted on X about MCU’s Ghost Rider:
“Ryan Gosling is Marvel Studios’ top choice to play the MCU’s Ghost Rider.”
Marvel Studios is actively considering Ryan Gosling for a pivotal role in Avengers: Doomsday, which is set to release on December 18, 2026. This highly anticipated film will finally introduce MCU’s Ghost Rider, ending years of speculation and fan theories.
Fans have consistently championed Ryan Gosling as the perfect choice for MCU’s Ghost Rider, particularly for the Johnny Blaze version. Moreover, with his impressive range and undeniable star power, Gosling seamlessly aligns with Marvel’s vision for the character.
Ryan Gosling as Ghost Rider, art made by @21xfour
During a 2022 MTV News interview with Josh Horowitz, Gosling openly expressed his interest, saying:
“Ghost Rider is the only one I want to play.”
Busy Schedule: Star Wars Conflict
Ryan Gosling has already committed to the upcoming Star Wars: Starfighter, directed by Deadpool & Wolverine filmmaker Shawn Levy, with filming set to begin this fall. This schedule could potentially overlap with early preparations for Avengers: Doomsday. The scooper noted that Gosling will be tied up with Starfighter during that time, but if “everything aligns,” he could still join the MCU as Ghost Rider as early as Avengers 5, which is slated for release on December 18, 2026.
Why Marvel Wants Ryan Gosling
Gosling’s impressive filmography clearly highlights his ability to deliver both box office hits and critically acclaimed performances. Moreover, his diverse range of roles underscores why he is a top choice for MCU’s Ghost Rider.
- Barbie
- La La Land
- Blade Runner 2049
- Drive
- The Gray Man
- The Notebook
Gosling earned two Oscar nominations and proved his value in major franchises. He already signed with Disney for Star Wars: Starfighter and shows a clear interest in taking on more high-profile commitments. Consequently, he stands out as a strong candidate for MCU’s Ghost Rider.
Who Is Ghost Rider in the MCU?
Ghost Rider is one of Marvel’s most powerful supernatural anti-heroes, commonly referred to as the Spirit of Vengeance. The character has been primarily depicted as either Johnny Blaze or Robbie Reyes in Marvel lore.
In previous adaptations, Nicolas Cage portrayed Johnny Blaze in Sony’s Ghost Rider films released in 2007 and 2012. Meanwhile, Gabriel Luna brought Robbie Reyes to life in the Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. television series.
Ghost Rider Was Off-Limits
Ghost Rider’s absence from What If…? Season 3 hints at Marvel’s long-term live-action plans. The character was also rumored for Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness but did not appear.
Potential Ties to MCU’s Ghost Rider and the Midnight Sons
Marvel is reportedly working on a Midnight Sons film, which could potentially feature a team that includes iconic characters such as:
- Moon Knight (Oscar Isaac)
- Blade (Mahershala Ali)
- Werewolf by Night
- Elsa Bloodstone
Gosling’s portrayal of MCU’s Ghost Rider could potentially serve as the cornerstone of this supernatural team. Furthermore, it paves the way for dark, occult, and horror-inspired storylines within the MCU, creating an exciting new direction for the franchise.
MCU’s Ghost Rider in Avengers: Doomsday and the Multiverse
Marvel has planned Avengers: Doomsday as Phase 6’s biggest film, packed with high-stakes multiversal events. Interestingly, Gosling may bring Ghost Rider to life either as a character from Earth-616, the primary MCU timeline, or as a multiversal variant. This strategy, in turn, mirrors Marvel’s successful approaches in projects such as Loki, No Way Home, and Multiverse of Madness.
Why Marvel May Not Confirm MCU’s Ghost Rider Yet
Marvel Studios has not yet confirmed the rumor. Nevertheless, scheduling conflicts, creative direction, and financial agreements must first align for contracts to finalize. Even so, the growing buzz surrounding Gosling and Marvel strongly suggests that:
“There’s more than smoke here—there’s a flaming skull waiting to be unleashed.”
Stay tuned for the latest updates on MCU’s upcoming projects, and subscribe to Marvel Updates’ YouTube channel.
