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Paul Mescal Solidifies Star Turn With Leading Role in “Gladiator” Sequel
Getty / Gilbert Flores
Paul Mescal is racking up roles. The actor, who previously had his breakout in “Normal People,” is reportedly in negotiations to star in a sequel to Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator,” according to Deadline. This news comes over two decades after the original film’s release, which was massively successful and earned five awards at the 2001 Oscars, including best picture.
The sequel is set to pick up years after the events of the first film, which ends in the honorable death of its hero Maximus (Russell Crowe). If officially cast, Mescal would portray Lucius, the son of Lucilla, who briefly appears as a young boy, played by Spencer Treat Clark, in the first film. Lucilla (Connie Nielsen) is the former lover of Maximus and sister to the sadistic Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix).
Scott will return to direct the sequel, while the script was written by David Scarpa. This will mark Scott and Scarpa’s third collaboration after “All the Money in the World” and the upcoming “Napoleon.” From the original “Gladiator” crew, costume designer Janty Yates and production designer Arthur Max have also signed on.
“Gladiator” was a smash hit when it was released in 2000. The film earned over $460 million at the box office. In addition to its best picture Oscar, Crowe received the award for best actor. Phoenix also received a nomination for best supporting actor.
A release date for the “Gladiator” sequel is likely still a ways away, but scroll ahead for all the existing details about the follow-up film.
Everett Collection / DreamWorks/Courtesy Everett Collection
The "Gladiator" Sequel Cast
Paul Mescal is currently the only actor attached to the “Gladiator” sequel. Mescal was reportedly an early top choice for Ridley Scott, and was among the first to meet with the director once the screenplay draft was finalized in November 2022.
Mescal had his breakout as Connell Waldron in the 2020 series “Normal People.” He’s since appeared in critically acclaimed films such as “The Lost Daughter” and “Aftersun.” Up ahead, Mescal will appear as one of the leads in “Carmen,” the latest adaptation of the tragic novella.
Everett Collection / DreamWorks/Courtesy Everett Collection
The "Gladiator" Sequel Director
Ridley Scott will return to direct the “Gladiator” sequel over two decades after the release of the original. Over the years, Scott had discussed returning to the same story, and he told Deadline in 2021 that a “footprint” for the sequel had been written. “There’s enough components from the first one to pick up the ball and continue it,” he said.
Everett Collection / DreamWorks/Courtesy Everett Collection
The "Gladiator" Sequel Plot
The “Gladiator” sequel will focus on Lucius Verus, the son of Lucilla and the Roman emperor he was named after. Lucius had a minor role in the first film, but he is shown looking up to Maximus (Russell Crowe).