Paul Mescal in talks to lead Ridley Scott's 'Gladiator' sequel

2000’s ‘Gladiator’ movie featured actors Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix and Conie Nielsen in the lead

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The sequel of ‘Gladiator’ has inched closer to reality as the filmmaker is close to finalising the lead actor for the project.

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Paul Mescal, the star of ‘’Normal People’’, is in negotiations to star in the follow-up, which Scott has set as his next directorial, according to Deadline.

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A Paramount project, the sequel will be produced by Scott and Michael Pruss as well as Doug Wick and Lucy Fisher. David Scarpa has penned the script.

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The original, released in 2000, featured actors Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix and Conie Nielsen in the lead.

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Set years after the events of the first film, the sequel will focus on Lucius (Mescal), the son of Lucilla (Nielsen) and the nephew of Commodus (Phoenix).

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Mescal is currently receiving acclaim for his performance in the period drama Aftersun from filmmaker Charlotte Wells.

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He also featured in God's Creatures which premiered at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival.

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Crowe played Maximus, the Roman general-turned-gladiator, who avenges the murders of his wife and son.

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