Ridley Scott has explained why he did not consult Russell Crowe for the upcoming sequel to Gladiator, titled Gladiator II.
Crowe famously portrayed Maximus Decimus Meridius in the original film, where his character, a general, survived an assassination attempt by the antagonist Commodus and later became a gladiator.
Upon his return to Rome, Maximus faced off against Commodus’ schemes, ultimately restoring Rome as intended by the late emperor Marcus Aurelius.
The sequel will focus on Lucius Verus, a character who appeared as a child in the first movie.
Paul Mescal, known for his role in Normal People, will play Lucius, who is sold into slavery following the Roman invasion of Numidia, a historical kingdom located in what is now Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya.
Pedro Pascal will shift from his usual roles in The Mandalorian and The Last of Us to portray the antagonistic Roman general Marcus Acacius.
However, Russell Crowe’s Maximus will be absent from this film, and Ridley Scott provided a straightforward explanation for this decision.
Fans will remember that Maximus died from his wounds after defeating Commodus in the Colosseum.
Given that Maximus’ death was a major plot point, Scott made it clear that his return was not feasible.
Discussing why he did not speak with Crowe about the sequel, Scott told Empire magazine: “I think he’s still one of the best actors in the world, and I think we have a good relationship. I hope we do.
“As long as he doesn’t start b*tching about how he wasn’t consulted. Why would I? He’s dead!”
Nonetheless, some actors from the original film will return in the sequel.
These include Connie Nielson as Lucilla, Lucius’ mother, and Sir Derek Jacobi as Senator Gracchus.
From what has been revealed so far, viewers can expect intense gladiatorial combat and gore when Mescal and Pascal’s characters clash, complete with the customary sand-rubbing ritual.
Scott is highly confident about the sequel, describing it as ‘the best thing I’ve ever made.’
Considering Scott’s impressive filmography, which includes Alien, Blade Runner, and Thelma & Louise, in addition to Gladiator, such confidence is notable.
Scott humorously acknowledged this to Empire, stating: “One of the best things. I’ve made a few good ’uns.”