Ryan Gosling Joins MCU as Ghost Rider, Shawn Levy to Direct Marvel Film Releasing in 2028

Ryan Gosling has officially joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as Johnny Blaze in Marvel Studios’ upcoming Ghost Rider film. The announcement was made during Marvel Studios’ Hall H panel at San Diego Comic-Con on Sunday.

Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige confirmed the casting through a surprise on-stage reveal, while also introducing the film’s director, Shawn Levy. The standalone movie is scheduled for a theatrical release in 2028.

Ryan Gosling Confirmed as MCU’s Ghost Rider

The announcement came in dramatic fashion during the Hall H presentation. Journalist Josh Horowitz called out from the audience asking about Gosling, prompting Kevin Feige to invite the actor onto the stage to the sound of a revving motorcycle.

The reveal received a loud response from fans attending the event, officially confirming Gosling as the next actor to portray Johnny Blaze.

Ryan Gosling Shares His Excitement

Speaking to the audience, Gosling said, “Wow. Is this really happening?”

He added, “As you know, this is a character I’ve wanted to play for a very long time. But if we’re really going to do this, there’s only one director who can do it.”

Shawn Levy to Direct Ghost Rider

Following Gosling’s remarks, Shawn Levy joined him on stage as the director of the upcoming standalone Ghost Rider film. Marvel Studios also unveiled the film’s official logo and title treatment during the presentation.

Levy reflected on his previous Hall H appearance after the success of Deadpool and Wolverine.

According to Variety, Levy said, “I’m having the greatest flashback vibes here, because I was here two years ago when we showed Deadpool and Wolverine.”

He further added, “We spent a lot of time last year making Starfighter, and the opportunity as Ryan started talking about this character, I was like, Bro let’s ride. We’ll see you in 2028.”

Ryan Gosling and Shawn Levy Reunite

The Ghost Rider project marks another collaboration between Ryan Gosling and Shawn Levy. The duo is also working together on Star Wars: Starfighter, which is scheduled for theatrical release on May 28, 2027.

Ghost Rider’s Previous Live-Action Versions

This film will mark Ryan Gosling’s first superhero or comic book role.

• Nicolas Cage portrayed Johnny Blaze in Ghost Rider (2007).
• Cage reprised the role in Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance (2011).
• Both films were produced outside the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
• Gabriel Luna later portrayed Robbie Reyes in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., although that version was never formally incorporated into MCU continuity.

Ghost Rider 2028 Release Confirmed

Conclusion

Marvel Studios has officially confirmed Ryan Gosling as Johnny Blaze in the upcoming Ghost Rider movie, with Shawn Levy directing the project. The film is set for a theatrical release in 2028, introducing Gosling to the MCU in his first-ever superhero role.