Will Ferrell to play NFL legend John Madden in upcoming film

Will Ferrell is reportedly in talks to portray NFL figure John Madden in an upcoming theatrical film titled Madden. Citing multiple unnamed sources, Deadline says the project will be directed by five-time Academy Award nominee David O. Russell (American Hustle, My Silver Lining), and will be a collaboration between Amazon and MGM.

While Amazon declined to comment on the news, the Madden concept has reportedly been in the works for some time. Based on a script by Cambron Clark that appeared on The Blacklist, Russell worked on revisions until the project was put on hold due to a writers’ strike.

Categorized as a Prime Video Sports Original, Madden is set to explore the life of the charismatic Madden, a prominent figure on the fringes of the NFL. Madden dreamed of becoming a head coach, and in this role he has achieved great success. However, the demanding nature of the job eventually took its toll, prompting him to move away from coaching.

The film will primarily focus on Madden’s friendship with Al Davis, owner of the Oakland Raiders, and how Madden found a new path that brought him even greater recognition. Although Madden had no personal experience with video games, Madden played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the gaming industry by becoming the head of the popular Madden NFL franchise, which has consistently been a bestseller published by Electronic Arts.

Produced by Escape Artists with Todd Black, Jonathan Shukat and Jason Blumenthal, Madden has high hopes for capturing the essence of one of the NFL’s most beloved figures. Notably, Steve Tisch, co-owner of the New York Giants, is also one of the film’s producers.

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