Barry Keoghan In Talks To Join Paul Mescal In Ridley Scott’s ‘Gladiator’ Sequel

Over two decades ago, one of the most celebrated and beloved films in history, Gladiator, was released and rejuvenated theaters everywhere. Now, the long-awaited sequel is finally taking a few major steps forward. As first reported by Giant Freaking Robot, and corroborated by The Hollywood Reporter, recent Oscar nominee Barry Keoghan is the latest name to join the film.

Keoghan joins Paul Mescal as the two top-billing stars in the film. Scott is directing the sequel to his 2000 film with  All The Money In The World writer David Scarpa penning the script. Ridley Scott’s Scott Free production banner is producing with Paramount Pictures backing the film. Mescal will be portraying the nephew of Joaquin Phoenix’s Commodus from the original Gladiator while Keoghan will step into a villainous role.

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Ridley Scott’s Gladiator stars Russell Crowe. Crowe stars as Roman general Maximus Decimus Meridius, who is betrayed when the ambitious son of the Emperor murders his father and seizes the throne. Reduced to slavery, Maximus becomes a gladiator and rises through the ranks of the arena to avenge the murders of his family and his emperor.  the film grossed over $460.5 million worldwide and earned five Academy Awards at the 73rd Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Crowe.

Barry Keoghan is fresh off a stellar 2022 following his Oscar-nominated turn in The Banshees of Inisherin and his debut as the Joker in a cameo in Matt Reeves’ The Batman. Up next, the Eternals star will join Jacob Elordi, Rosamund Pike, and Richard E. Grant in Emerald Fennell’s upcoming thriller Saltburn.

What do you think? Are you excited about Gladiator 2? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

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