Gladiator star Russell Crowe expressed his jealousy towards the upcoming sequel, Gladiator 2, after seeing the impressive Coliseum set. The film will follow the journey of Lucius, the son of Maximus' lover Lucilla, as he strives to become an emperor. Directed by Ridley Scott and written by David Scarpa, the sequel boasts an all-star cast including Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, Djimon Hounsou, Derek Jacobi, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Pedro Pascal, and May Calamawy from Moon Knight. Speaking at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival, Crowe revealed his excitement for the release, trusting that Scott has created something truly spectacular.
I feel a slight tinge of envy as it not only reminds me of my younger days, but also of the significance it held in my life.
For a brief moment, it felt like time stood still. I am not familiar with the cast or the plot - well, I wouldn't be, considering I am no longer alive - but whoever is involved in that movie, if Ridley has chosen to create a sequel to that story, there must be strong compelling reasons. It is characteristic of Ridley to reconsider and improve upon everything he has done. I cannot imagine that movie being anything less than absolutely breathtaking when it is released.
Will Maximus Appear in Gladiator 2?
Maximus' death in Gladiator does not hinder the possibility of Russell Crowe reprising his role through a flashback or dream sequence. As details about the upcoming sequel remain sparse, Crowe's remarks about the Coliseum set hint at his potential appearance. This would not only serve the purpose of storytelling, given Maximus' close connection with Lucilla, but also satisfy fans of the original film with a brief return of Crowe.
By having Nielsen, Jacobi, and Hounsou return as Lucilla, Gracchus, and Juba respectively, there is a chance for Maximus to make a comeback in some form. Although it is unclear what specific roles the three characters will play in the sequel, their involvement was significant in Maximus' narrative in the original film, making a flashback a logical choice.
The sequel to Gladiator, known as Gladiator 2, may not constantly mention Maximus or include his presence in any form. While his name might be mentioned, audiences should not anticipate Russell Crowe reprising his role, despite it catapulting him to stardom and earning him an Academy Award in 2001. The nature of the sequel that director Scott has planned for movie lovers will only be revealed with time, as Gladiator 2 is set to be released exclusively in theaters on November 22, 2024.