Mortal Kombat's Comic Relief Johnny Cage: 30 Years of Violence, Death, and Jean-Claude Van Damme Cameos

Johnny Cage was the first character filmed for Mortal Kombat in 1992, originally modeled after Jean-Claude Van Damme's character in Bloodsport.

Cage was integral to Mortal Kombat's creation, inspiring fatalities and representing the player perspective.

Cage has "died" and come back to life multiple times in Mortal Kombat's convoluted lore over the years.

Cage provides comic relief and humor to balance Mortal Kombat's dark themes of violence and gore.

After 30 years, NetherRealm finally secured Jean-Claude Van Damme's likeness for a Cage skin in Mortal Kombat 11.