Paul Mescal Expresses Desire for Gladiator III Role

Paul Mescal shared his enthusiasm for a potential Gladiator III during the Gladiator II premiere afterparty on November 18 in Los Angeles. The 28-year-old actor expressed his eagerness to return to the role of Lucius, stating, "I think so," when asked if he would reprise his character.

"If there's going to be a Gladiator III, I hope I'm in it," Mescal conveyed at the TCL Chinese Theater & Roosevelt Hotel.

Gladiator II features a star-studded cast, including Denzel Washington as Macrinus, Pedro Pascal as Marcus Acacius, and Connie Nielsen as Lucilla. The plot centers on Lucius as he enters the Colosseum following the Romans’ conquest of his homeland, years after witnessing the death of gladiator Maximus, portrayed by Russell Crowe in the original film. Driven by anger, Lucius seeks to restore glory to Rome.

When asked if he connects with Lucius’ anger concerning his acting journey, Mescal responded, "Rage isn't useful with acting, I think." He explained that his drama school experience focused on support, contrasting with the violence faced by Macrinus.

"I felt that support at drama school. It wasn’t about breaking actors down. Instead, it was based on love and support for young people," Mescal clarified, highlighting a difference between his experience and his character’s.

Mescal also highlighted that some of his favorite scenes were with Connie Nielsen. He noted that they maintained a distance unconsciously before shooting, leading to contrasting motivations within their performances.

"There was a robust rehearsal with Ridley and Connie. I was like, ‘This is exactly where I want to be,’" he said. "I want to be in the weeds with a great actor and one of the great directors ever."

Gladiator II is set to hit theaters on November 22.

Earlier, SSP wrote that Nicholas Hoult seemed to confirm a marriage to Bryana Holly.