With Ryan Gosling set to bring Ghost Rider into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, fans are looking back at the character's big-screen origins. Nicolas Cage's two live-action outings as Johnny Blaze are about to get a fresh streaming home, and it won't cost a dime.
During San Diego Comic-Con 2026, Marvel announced that Gosling would star in a new Ghost Rider film, part of the MCU's expanding supernatural corner. Gosling's recent box-office muscle from Project Hail Mary and Barbie, plus his upcoming Star Wars: Starfighter, makes him a hot commodity. But before he takes the wheel, Cage's versions are getting a second life on Tubi.
A Quick History of Ghost Rider on Screen
In the comics, Ghost Rider is Johnny Blaze, a stunt motorcyclist who sells his soul to Mephisto and becomes a fiery-skulled anti-hero. The character debuted in Marvel Spotlight #5 in 1972 and has since popped up in animated shows and even a brief mention in the MCU's Ironheart. However, only two live-action films told his story before the MCU took over—both starring Cage.
Cage first played Blaze in 2007's Ghost Rider, followed by the 2012 sequel Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance. These films chronicled his transformation from stuntman to supernatural vigilante, complete with the deal with Mephisto and his eventual embrace of the role. When Spider-Noir hit Prime Video, fans flocked to Cage's Marvel movies on Sony Pictures Core, making them streaming hits. Now, they're moving to Tubi, where they'll be available for free starting August 1, 2026.
Are the Cage Ghost Rider Movies Worth Your Time?
Both films were commercial successes, pulling in over $365 million worldwide combined. But critics were less kind. The original Ghost Rider holds a 28% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes, with audiences slightly more forgiving at 48%. The sequel fared worse, with an 18% critics' score and a 31% audience score. Common complaints included dated CGI and a convoluted plot, though many agreed Cage's over-the-top performance was the highlight.
Some fans have since re-evaluated the films as guilty pleasures, praising Cage's commitment to the role while acknowledging the rushed storytelling. The sequel, Spirit of Vengeance, drew comparisons to other poorly received Marvel efforts like Madame Web and 2015's Fantastic Four. Still, a niche audience finds enjoyment in its chaotic energy.
For those curious about the character's cinematic past before Gosling's MCU take, these films offer a campy, entertaining ride. And if you're in the mood for more underrated gems, check out our list of underrated 2020s movies that deserve more love.
The MCU's Ghost Rider is slated for a 2028 release. In the meantime, you can catch Cage's fiery performances on Tubi starting August 1, 2026. For more streaming picks, don't miss our roundup of must-watch Netflix movies for the same weekend.
While you wait, explore other Marvel-adjacent content, like Marvel's dark new What If or the best fantasy epics to fill the void.
