Johnny Cage, Shao Khan, Kitana Revealed in Mortal Kombat 2 Film

Fans of the iconic fighting game series can finally catch a glimpse of the exciting new characters set to make their mark in the upcoming Mortal Kombat 2 film. Entertainment Weekly recently unveiled images showcasing Karl Urban as the charismatic Johnny Cage, Martyn Ford embodying the imposing Shao Kahn, and Adeline Rudolph stepping into the role of the regal Kitana. Additionally, Hiroyuki Sanada returns to reprise his role as the fierce Scorpion.

The anticipation around Karl Urban's portrayal of Johnny Cage has been high ever since his image was teased on an in-universe movie poster. Known for his role as Billy Butcher in The Boys, Urban brings a fresh-faced look to Cage, complete with the character's signature hair and sunglasses, captured in a classic martial arts pose. The background of the image features returning stars Ludi Lin as Liu Kang, Mehcad Brooks as Jax, and Jessica McNamee as Sonya Blade.

First looks at Johnny Cage, Shao Khan, Kitana and Scorpion in Mortal Kombat 2 film:

Karl Urban ➡️ Johnny Cage
Martyn Ford ➡️ Shao Kahn
Adeline Rudolph ➡️ Kitana
Hiroyuki Sanada reprises as Scorpion

Via: https://t.co/1CHXzLhFGK#MortalKombat2 pic.twitter.com/7ifeMHzhC6 — Shinobi602 (@shinobi602) March 17, 2025

Ed Boon, co-creator of the Mortal Kombat series at NetherRealm Studios, shared insights on Johnny Cage's integration into the film's narrative. "His integration into the Mortal Kombat story and universe is a big part of what this movie explores,” Boon stated. He highlighted Urban's unique take on the character, noting, “He's a washed-up Hollywood guy thrown into this magical, ultra-violent thing. Karl, his depiction of Johnny Cage is different than our games in some ways. He's adding his own flare to it, but I think it'll feel fresh. There's like a novelty factor in there."

Boon also teased a "ridiculously hilarious" introduction for Johnny Cage, while director Simon McQuoid emphasized the balance they sought in the character's portrayal. "We wanted a character that wasn't just completely silly, comic book… It's a character that could instantly go there and become too light and throwaway if we were to lean too much into the kind of cheese. The casting of Karl Urban for that role allowed that character to have more depth."

Entertainment Weekly also confirmed that movie-accurate skins for Urban's Johnny Cage, Rudolph's Kitana, and Ford's Shao Kahn will be available in Mortal Kombat 1 later this year, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans.

In addition to the new characters, Damon Herriman joins the cast as Quan Chi, while Josh Lawson and Max Huang make a surprising return as Kano and Kung Lao, respectively, despite their demise in the first film. Boon explained this resurrection by referencing the game's lore: "So we deal with spirits and the NetherRealm and things like that," he said. "There are ways to bring dead characters back."

Rounding out the new additions, Tati Gabrielle will portray Jade, and Ana Thu Nguyen will play Queen Sindel. Mortal Kombat 2 is slated to hit theaters on October 24, 2025, promising fans an action-packed continuation of the beloved franchise.