The Marvel Cinematic Universe is heating up with rumors that Ghost Rider could make his big-screen return in Avengers: Doomsday. And if recent reports are true, Ryan Gosling might be the one riding into the MCU as Johnny Blaze.
Marvel Begins Search for Ghost Rider
On May 23, 2025, trusted insider Jeff Sneider revealed on The Hot Mic podcast that Marvel Studios is casting Ghost Rider for Avengers: Doomsday, set to release on December 18, 2026. According to Sneider, Marvel is seeking a fresh face for the role, ruling out past Ghost Riders like Nicolas Cage and Gabriel Luna.
Social media posts have fueled buzz around Ryan Gosling being the top contender, although Marvel has yet to confirm anything. This casting move would match Marvel’s ongoing push into darker, supernatural heroes—seen in shows like Moon Knight and Werewolf by Night.
Ryan Gosling Has Always Wanted This Role
Gosling has shown interest in playing Ghost Rider since 2022. In an interview with Josh Horowitz, he said it was his dream MCU role. Kevin Feige, Marvel Studios’ president, responded with excitement, saying he’d love to find a role for Gosling in the MCU.
Fan-made artwork and concept videos imagining Gosling as Johnny Blaze have been circulating online, showing the excitement among Marvel fans.
Why Gosling Is a Natural Fit
Gosling brings star power and experience. His action roles in The Gray Man and The Fall Guy show he’s ready for big stunts, while his dramatic performances in Drive and The Place Beyond the Pines reveal the emotional depth needed for Johnny Blaze.
Ghost Rider is a tormented motorcycle stuntman cursed with demonic powers—and Gosling has already played a stuntman in The Place Beyond the Pines. Fans say his mix of grit, emotion, and charisma makes him a perfect fit.
A Disney Insider Already
Gosling is currently filming Star Wars: Starfighter with Disney’s Lucasfilm, directed by Shawn Levy. His connection to Disney could make it easier for Marvel to bring him onboard, especially since both studios operate under the same parent company.
Given that Avengers: Doomsday begins filming in March 2025, the timing could work well if Gosling wraps up his Starfighter project soon.
Ghost Rider’s Role in Avengers: Doomsday
Avengers: Doomsday, directed by the Russo Brothers, is rumored to feature Ghost Rider in a big way. With a massive cast and a $400 million budget, the film could feature a magical or supernatural storyline involving Doctor Doom.
In the comics, Doom has clashed with Ghost Rider in the Midnight Suns arc. Gosling’s Johnny Blaze could fit right into this conflict, potentially setting up a Midnight Sons movie alongside Blade and Moon Knight.
Final Thoughts
Ryan Gosling’s mix of talent, fan support, and ties to Disney makes him a strong candidate to play Johnny Blaze. His desire for the role and Marvel’s interest in him make this more than just a rumor—it could be the casting news that reignites the MCU’s supernatural side.
If Marvel confirms Gosling’s casting, it would not only please fans but also introduce a powerful new hero just in time for one of the biggest MCU films to date.