Ghost Rider Movie News: Updates, Cast & Release Rumors

Eva Mendes has broken her silence on the news that her husband, Ryan Gosling, is set to play Johnny Blaze in a new "Ghost Rider" project, marking a full-circle moment for the actress who starred opposite Nicolas Cage in the 2007 original. Mendes, who played Roxanne Simpson in that film, issued a statement through her representatives late Monday, calling the casting "a thrilling development" and expressing full support for Gosling’s take on the iconic Marvel antihero.

The announcement, made by Sony Pictures earlier this week, has reignited interest in the supernatural motorcycle franchise. Gosling, known for his roles in "Drive" and "Barbie," will step into the burning leather jacket that Cage once wore, with production slated to begin in early 2027. Mendes, who has largely stepped away from acting in recent years, has not yet indicated whether she will appear in the reboot, but her reaction has been widely shared across social media.

Background on the Original 'Ghost Rider'

The 2007 film, directed by Mark Steven Johnson, tells the story of Johnny Blaze, a young stunt cyclist who sells his soul to the demon Mephistopheles (played by Peter Fonda) to save his dying father. Years later, Blaze becomes the fiery Ghost Rider, cursed to hunt evil spirits. Mendes portrayed Roxanne Simpson, a go-getting reporter and Blaze’s childhood sweetheart. The film also starred Sam Elliott as the Phantom Rider, Wes Bentley as the villainous Blackheart, and Matt Long as a young Johnny Blaze.

With a runtime of 114 minutes, the movie earned a mixed critical reception and holds a TMDb rating of 5.6 out of 10. Despite its lukewarm score, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $228 million worldwide against a $110 million budget. A sequel, "Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance," was released in 2011 with Cage returning, but the franchise has remained dormant since then.

Mendes’ Connection to the Franchise

Mendes’ involvement in the original film gives her a unique perspective on the new casting. In interviews from the 2007 press tour, she described the role as a physically demanding but rewarding experience, praising Cage’s commitment to the character. While she has not acted since 2014’s "Lost River," which Gosling directed, she has remained active in fashion and entrepreneurship.

Her reaction to Gosling’s casting comes as no surprise to close friends. The couple, who have been together since 2011 and share two daughters, have often supported each other’s professional projects. Gosling’s decision to take on the role was reportedly influenced by his admiration for the "Ghost Rider" comics and a desire to reinvent the character for a modern audience.

What’s Next for the 'Ghost Rider' Reboot

Details on the new film remain scarce, but sources indicate that the script will take a darker, more character-driven approach than the 2007 version. Johnson, who directed the original, is not attached to the project. Instead, Sony has tapped emerging director Chloe Zhao ("Eternals") for early talks, though no deal is finalized. The studio is also exploring a potential crossover with other Marvel properties, as Sony holds the film rights to the character alongside Spider-Man.

Fans have already begun speculating about whether Mendes might reprise her role as Roxanne Simpson, possibly as a mentor figure for Gosling’s Blaze. Mendes has not ruled out a cameo, though her public statement focused entirely on her husband’s achievement. "She is incredibly proud of Ryan," a source close to the actress told Hollywood Buzz News. "This is a dream role for him, and she knows the pressure that comes with taking over a beloved character."

The casting has also sparked debate online, with some purists questioning whether Gosling can capture the grit of Cage’s performance. Others point to his range - from the brooding driver in "Drive" to the comedic Ken in "Barbie" - as proof he can bring a fresh energy to the role. Mendes, for her part, has been spotted wearing a Ghost Rider T-shirt in recent paparazzi photos, a subtle nod that has not gone unnoticed.

As the project moves into pre-production, all eyes will be on whether the Gosling-Mendes household becomes a two-Ghost-Rider family. For now, the actress seems content to cheer from the sidelines, letting the flaming skull find its new owner.

Source: Hollywood Reporter