Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal Discuss “Gladiator 2” Preparations and Challenges

Paul Mescal, star of the upcoming “Gladiator 2,” has revealed details about his casting and preparation for the highly anticipated sequel in a recent Vanity Fair interview. The actor, known for his breakout role in “Normal People,” shared that he was offered the lead role after just a 30-minute meeting with director Ridley Scott.

Mescal will play Lucius, son of Connie Nielsen’s Lucilla from the original film. The story follows Lucius as a young adult in Numidia, who eventually returns to Rome as a gladiator. The actor credits his background in Gaelic football as a contributing factor to his casting, noting that his experience with physical activity helped prepare him for the role.

The film’s preparation involved intense physical training for Mescal, who focused on building strength for fight choreography rather than aiming for a stereotypical movie star physique. He emphasized the psychological impact of feeling strong and how it influenced his portrayal of the character.

Pedro Pascal, who plays Marcus Acacius in the film, attested to Mescal’s physical transformation. Pascal humorously nicknamed Mescal “Brick Wall Paul” and admitted that fighting scenes with him were challenging due to Mescal’s newly acquired strength and fitness.

The cast of “Gladiator 2” also includes Denzel Washington as Macrinus, a wealthy Roman powerbroker, and Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger as twin emperors of Rome. The film is set to explore new conflicts and reunions within the Roman Empire.

Mescal’s approach to the role focused on authenticity rather than aesthetic appeal. He stated,

“I just wanted to be big and strong and look like somebody who can cause a bit of damage when shit hits the fan. I think also, sometimes, one could, in striving for that perfect look, end up looking more like an underwear model than a warrior.”

“Gladiator 2” is scheduled for release on November 22, with expectations running high for this sequel to the 2000 Oscar-winning film. As pre-release buzz continues to build, fans and critics alike are eager to see how this new chapter in the “Gladiator” saga unfolds under Ridley Scott’s direction and with its star-studded cast.