Nicolas Cage likens MCU to ‘well-funded and glorified WWE’
Hollywood actor Nicolas Cage has criticised the current direction of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), saying the franchise has moved away from the character-driven storytelling of its early years and increasingly focuses on large-scale action.
Cage made the comments during a conversation at Fan Expo Dallas, where he reflected on the early MCU films and their interconnected stories.
“It started out, in my view, terrific,” Cage said, praising the way the early films brought together different characters, storylines and backstories.
However, he said the franchise’s increasing emphasis on battle sequences has changed his perception of the films.
“I do say this with love,” Cage said. “When I see these 50-plus and otherwise intelligent and remarkably gifted thespians putting on these ridiculous outfits and getting ready for the fight — let’s face it, it’s all cutting to the fight — it’s hard for me not to be reminded that the MCU is becoming a well-funded and glorified WWE.”
Cage is not part of the MCU, although he recently starred as the titular character in Sony’s “Spider-Noir”, a Marvel-based series that was cancelled after its eight-episode first season.
He previously portrayed Johnny Blaze/Ghost Rider in “Ghost Rider” (2007) and “Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance” (2012).
The MCU began with “Iron Man” in 2008, starring Robert Downey Jr as Tony Stark, and subsequently introduced characters including Thor, Captain America, Black Widow and Hawkeye before bringing them together in “The Avengers” in 2012. The franchise has since expanded across films and television series.
Cage’s former Marvel character Ghost Rider is also set to return in the MCU, with Ryan Gosling attached to play the title role in Marvel Studios’ upcoming “Ghost Rider.” Directed by Shawn Levy, the film is currently scheduled for release on July 28, 2028.
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