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

The highly anticipated sequel, *Mortal Kombat 2*, has unveiled exciting new characters set to grace the screen. Entertainment Weekly recently shared exclusive images, showcasing Karl Urban as Johnny Cage, Martyn Ford as Shao Kahn, and Adeline Rudolph as Kitana, alongside the returning Hiroyuki Sanada as Scorpion. Fans, who have been eagerly waiting to see how Urban, known for his role as Billy Butcher in *The Boys*, would embody the egocentric Hollywood star Johnny Cage, can now get a glimpse. The image features Urban in a quintessential martial arts pose, complete with Cage’s signature hair and sunglasses, set against a backdrop featuring 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 his insights on Johnny Cage's role in the sequel with Entertainment Weekly. "His integration into the Mortal Kombat story and universe is a big part of what this movie explores," Boon stated. He highlighted how Urban's portrayal brings a fresh twist to the character, describing Cage as a "washed-up Hollywood guy thrown into this magical, ultra-violent thing." Boon also teased a "ridiculously hilarious" introduction for the character. Director Simon McQuoid added that Urban's casting allowed for a deeper, less comedic portrayal of Cage, preventing the character from becoming too light and throwaway.

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. In an interesting twist, Damon Herriman, known for his role in *Better Man*, joins the cast as Quan Chi. Additionally, Josh Lawson and Max Huang make a surprising return as Kano and Kung Lao, despite their characters' demise in the first film. Boon explained that the lore of the *Mortal Kombat* video games, which often bends the rules of life and death, allows for such comebacks. "So we deal with spirits and the NetherRealm and things like that," he said, indicating that the sequel will explore these themes to bring back beloved characters.

Rounding out the cast are Tati Gabrielle, who will play Jade, and Ana Thu Nguyen as Queen Sindel. *Mortal Kombat 2* is set to hit theaters on October 24, 2025, promising fans a thrilling continuation of the iconic franchise.