‘Spider Noir’ Star Nicolas Cage Calls MCU a Glorified WWE in Bold Remarks

Laura Bais
Nicolas Cage MCU
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Nicolas Cage has had a complex relationship with Marvel over the years. The Oscar-winning actor has spent more than four decades navigating through prestigious dramas, action-packed films, and wildly eccentric genre projects. A lifelong comic book enthusiast, his stage name was inspired by the superhero Luke Cage.

Cage has frequently shared his thoughts on the superhero genre. In 2022, he expressed confusion over the Coppola-Scorsese critique of Marvel, praising the studio for its family-friendly entertainment. His only real grievance was that the franchise didn’t exist early enough to save him from the ‘Ghost Rider’ films.

In 2026, Cage’s first-ever television role reignited his connection to the superhero conversation. The series ‘Spider-Noir’ premiered in May on Prime Video and MGM+, influencing his current views on the genre. This brings us to Cage’s latest comments regarding the MCU.

During an appearance at Fan Expo on September 29, Cage candidly discussed the direction of superhero films. According to various reports, he likened the Marvel Cinematic Universe to a well-funded, glorified version of WWE.

His reasoning was straightforward. Cage noted that he sees over 50 exceptionally talented actors donning extravagant costumes and preparing for battle, which reminds him of pro wrestling, suggesting that the MCU is evolving into a big-budget version of it.

“When I see these 50+ – remarkably gifted thespians putting on these ridiculous outfits and getting ready for the fight – It’s hard for me not to be reminded that the MCU is becoming a well-funded and glorified WWE”

Cage clarified that he intended his remarks to be affectionate. This context is important, as he has previously defended the franchise. In 2023, he mentioned at the Miami Film Festival that he feels obligated to speak kindly about Marvel because he chose his name after Luke Cage.

Despite this, he also stated that he doesn’t need to be part of the MCU. His comments at Fan Expo reflect a blend of admiration and clear critique.

Cage is not merely an observer; he starred in ‘Spider-Noir’ as Ben Reilly, a down-on-his-luck private investigator in 1930s New York who once served as the city’s sole superhero. Deadline reported that the character’s identity was altered for television due to rights issues.

The eight-episode series was not included in the MCU and its film noir aesthetic distinguished it from the vibrant spectacle typically associated with Marvel Studios. Although it garnered 11 Emmy nominations and won 4, Prime Video canceled it after just one season in September. Cage expressed satisfaction with the creative direction of the first season and its conclusion.

These comments come as Marvel prepares for ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ this December, a film featuring returns from Robert Downey Jr., Patrick Stewart, and Chris Evans, among others. Observers have noted that recent MCU releases tend to rely on familiar characters rather than introducing new narratives.

The MCU has established its multi-billion-dollar brand through high-profile team-ups and action-heavy climaxes, characterized by extensive CGI, elaborate costumes, and intricate stunt work. Cage’s comparison draws a direct parallel between these grand spectacles and the structure of WWE programming, where the match itself is the main attraction.

As is often the case with comments about Marvel, reactions were mixed. Some fans agreed that the franchise leans too heavily on visual spectacle, while others argued that superhero battles are integral to the genre.

Wrestling outlets also picked up on Cage’s remarks, interpreting the comparison as a nod to how both formats depend on physical spectacle to engage audiences over extended periods.

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