Actor and comedian Will Ferrell will play the lead role in an upcoming film about NFL icon John Madden, according to a Deadline report.
The «Madden» film will be directed by five-time Oscar nominee David O. Russell, who previously served as director of the critically acclaimed «Silver Linings Playbook,» among others.
The film is expected to address Madden’s time as head coach of the Raiders, his career as a television broadcaster and how he became the creative force behind one of the most popular video game franchises of all time.
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Will Ferrell attends the «Downhill» premiere at SVA Theater on February 12, 2020 in New York City. (Dominik Bindl/WireImage)
This project is standalone from a separate limited series on Madden’s life, with Tom Brady serving as executive producer, Deadline previously reported.
NFL ICON JOHN MADDEN’S REVOLUTIONARY CAREER CELEBRATED IN FOX SPORTS DOCUMENTARY
It’s unclear when filming for «Madden» will begin. An official release date for the film has not been announced.
New York Giants co-owner Steve Tisch is listed as one of the producers of «Madden.» The NFL is widely expected to «embrace the film about one of the most beloved figures in the game,» according to Deadline.
John Madden poses with his bust at the Pro Football Hall of Fame induction at Fawcett Stadium in Canton, Ohio on August 5, 2006. (Kirby Lee/Getty Images)
Ferrell has experience portraying sports figures on the big screen. He has starred in sports-themed movies like «Talladega Nights» and «Semi-Pro» among others.
American actor and Los Angeles Football Club owner Will Ferrell attends a game against the Philadelphia Union as part of the 2022 MLS Cup Final at Banc of California Stadium on November 5, 2022 in Los Angeles. (Omar Vega/Getty Images)
Ferrell is a California native and attended the University of Southern California where he studied sports information.
He makes frequent appearances at USC Trojans football games and is a die-hard fan of the Los Angeles Kings.
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«Madden» will be produced by Amazon and MGM studios.