Ghost Rider is one of the most popular Marvel characters fans have been clamoring to see in the MCU. However, fans have also debated over who should be the actor playing the Spirit of Vengeance on the big screen. While many believe that actor Keanu Reeves is the best fit for the part, another actor makes an equally worthy candidate.
In the past, The Walking Dead-fame actor Norman Reedus publicly voiced his desire to play the role of Ghost Rider in the MCU. Given Reedus’ filmography and public persona, there is an argument to be made for him probably being better suited for the MCU’s version of Ghost Rider. Here is why Norman Reedus might be a better pick for Ghost Rider in the MCU.
Norman Reedus Has Expressed His Desire to Play the MCU’s Ghost Rider
Norman Reedus became a household name with his performance as Daryl Dixon in The Walking Dead. Reedus is currently leading his own spin-off series The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon. However, beyond the television franchise, Reedus has set his sights on joining the MCU, in the role of Ghost Rider.
During an interview with ComicBook.com in 2021, Reedus first addressed the possibility of him suiting up as the Spirit of Vengeance in the MCU. He said:
“I want to play Ghost Rider.”
Reedus added that he wanted his version of Ghost Rider to have a complete fire skull along with a whip, which is a trademark of the character in the comics. At the same time, Reedus also expressed interest in appearing alongside The Walking Dead alum Jon Bernthal, who plays The Punisher in the MCU.
In 2022, Reedus reiterated the possibility of him playing Ghost Rider, disclosing that he had conversations with Marvel Studios over the past couple of years. However, Reedus was keeping his fingers crossed at the time and waiting for a chance to play the character on the big screen.
Why Norman Reedus Could Be a Better Choice For Ghost Rider Than Keanu Reeves
Actor Keanu Reeves has also expressed a strong desire to play the role of Ghost Rider, calling it one of his childhood dream roles. Given Reeves’ popularity, many would consider him a frontrunner for the role. Moreover, with Reeves’ love for motorbikes, it is hard not to see him as the perfect fit for the Spirit of Vengeance.
However, Reeves’ success with the John Wick franchise has revitalized his stardom. As a result, casting Reeves as Ghost Rider could lead to his star persona overpowering the character. In contrast, Norman Reedus provides a suitable alternative for the role, as it would allow the actor to make the jump from television to the big screen.
Like Reeves, Reedus is also a noted motorcycle enthusiast and his performance as Daryl Dixon proves his potential as the MCU’s next Ghost Rider. At the same time, Reeves’ busy schedule might prevent him from lending the kind of flexibility and long-term commitment Marvel gigs require.
On the other hand, Reedus could be read to go as soon as he wraps up his commitments to the short six-episode seasons of his The Walking Dead spin-off. Furthermore, Reeves has already played a comic book character with ties to Hell in Constantine. A sequel to that film is reportedly in development, meaning if Reeves shifts to the DC camp, Reedus could swoop in for the Ghost Rider gig.
The Walking Dead and The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon are streaming on AMC+.
