Marvel Finds Its Johnny Blaze in ‘Barbie’ Star
After a decade of waiting, Ghost Rider is finally getting a reboot, starring Ryan Gosling. It’s an unexpected casting decision, but for Gosling, who has been a fan of the character, it’s a dream come true.
Marvel Studios executive Kevin Feige introduced Gosling as the new Ghost Rider at Hall H of the San Diego Comic Con. Directed by Shawn Levy, the movie will be released in 2028.
“Wow, is this really happening?” Gosling said, coming out in a pinkish red jacket. The Barbie actor seems to be in disbelief at having landed his dream role.
“As you know, this is a character that I’ve wanted to play for a very long time. So, Kevin, Josh Horowitz, Paul H., thank you!” the star added. He thanked and gave a shoutout to those who have helped him land the role.
He wasn’t sure if he’d get the role of Ghost Rider
Earlier in 2026, in an interview with Josh Horowitz, the host asked Gosling if he could finally confirm his casting as the iconic Ghost Rider. Horowitz even joked that he had “done everything” in his power to make it happen for Gosling.
“You’re not working hard enough,” he quipped at the host.
Gosling said that “discussions have been had.” However, he didn’t confirm that he would be starring in the latest addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The Project Hail Mary star further stated that he was hopeful to get the new role but called the situation “complicated.”
When Horowitz asked why Ghost Rider is Gosling’s dream role, the actor shrugged.
“It’s just a feeling,” he stated.
Social media broke upon the announcement, with many commenters in support of Gosling’s casting.
One commenter from X said, “WE DID IT!! WE WILLED THIS INTO EXISTENCE AND ITS HERE!” Aside from celebrating the casting, other fans have voiced their concerns. They are hoping that the movie will be R-rated once released.
A fan tweeted, “Ghost Rider is one character they shouldn’t rush; the whole appeal is the dark tone and crazy energy.”
But Gosling is also known for his versatility as an actor. While he may be best known for his role as Ken in the Barbie movie, fans are anticipating his performance as the flaming hero in the upcoming remake of Ghost Rider.
Is he playing Johnny Blaze or Danny Ketch?
However, it’s still unclear if Gosling will be playing Danny Ketch or Johnny Blaze. Although fans online have commented, saying that they could envision the actor as Johnny Blaze, this is all still speculation.
“I am gonna let Ryan reveal what he wants to reveal when he wants to reveal it. And what he revealed today was he’s playing Ghost Rider,” Feige told ComicBook.com.
“He’s a huge fan of the comics. He did come to us, particularly, with a specific vision based on some particular comics. But I’ll let him unveil that as he wants to,” the Marvel Studios exec continued.
(featured image: Jenna Anderson/The Mary Sue)
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