Paul Mescal in talks for Gladiator sequel?

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief | 09 January 2023

Paul Mescal, known for Normal People and Aftersun, is reportedly in negotiations to lead the second Gladiator film.

Paul Mescal is reportedly in talks to play the lead in a sequel to Ridley Scott's acclaimed Gladiator.

A follow-up to the 2000 movie - the final project of the late Oliver Reed - had long been rumoured but was finally confirmed in 2021 when Scott revealed that work had started on the script.

Now the plans have started moving at pace, with Deadline reporting that Scott had a "fantastic meeting" with Normal People's Mescal about starring as the lead in November.

The publication says that the 26-year-old, who has also appeared in the acclaimed film Aftersun, will play the role of Lucius, the now-adult son of Lucilla (Connie Nielsen), and he is expected to bulk up to play the part.

Although the casting is not yet a done deal, it is now thought to be a formality, with filming expected to take place this summer.

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