Ridley Scott’s Gladiator sequel has secured an official 2024 release date. The action film, which follows Scott’s original 2000 movie that won the Oscar for best picture, will premiere in theaters on November 22, 2024 via Paramount. The flagship title centered on a former general named Maximus Decimus Meridius, played by Russell Crowe, who had no choice but to become a gladiator under the jurisdiction of Joaquin Phoenix’s Commodus, the self-chosen Roman Emperor.
Previous reports stated the Gladiator sequel will follow Lucius, the son of Maximus’ lover Lucilla, depicted by Connie Nielsen. The cast is largely unknown at this time, though Paul Mescal, who is nominated for best actor at the 2023 Academy Awards for his role in A24’s Aftersun, is currently in negotiations to star as Lucius. Meanwhile, David Scarpa, who previously worked on Scott’s All The Money In the World, is writing the script. Scott is producing, with Scott Free’s Michael Pruss and Red Wagon Entertainment’s Doug Wick and Lucy Fisher.
Mescal will face off for the best actor trophy against Austin Butler (Elvis), Colin Farrell (The Banshees of Inisherin), Brendan Fraser (The Whale) and Bill Nighy (Living). The 27-year-old actor entered the limelight on Hulu’s 2020 adaptation of Normal People and later starred in The Lost Daughter, with Olivia Colman, Dakota Johnson and Jessie Buckley. Stay tuned for more information on Ridley Scott’s Gladiator sequel.
