Barry Keoghan in talks to join Paul Mescal in Ridley Scott’s Gladiator sequel

Oscar-nominated actor Barry Keoghan is currently in negotiations to join Paul Mescal in Ridley Scott's untitled Gladiator sequel at Paramount.

According to Variety, the sequel follows 2000’s blockbuster hit Gladiator with Scott returning to direct and produce. The original film starred Russell Crowe as Maximus Decimus Meridius, a Roman soldier forced into slavery who vows revenge against Commodus, played by Joaquin Phoenix.

Since Maximus dies at the end of Gladiator, Mescal will play Lucius, the son of Maximus’ lover Lucilla (played by Connie Nielsen), in the sequel, as per the report, while Keoghan is in talks to play Emperor Geta. The original film was nominated for 12 Academy Awards, winning five including Best Picture.

Scott is attached to produce along with Scott Free President Michael Pruss as well as Doug Wick & Lucy Fisher via Red Wagon Entertainment. The script comes from David Scarpa. Executive producers attached are Walter Parkes and Laurie MacDonald. The original film’s cinematographer John Mathieson, production designer Arthur Max and costume designer Janty Yates are all set to return for the sequel.

On the work front, Keoghan is freshly coming off a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination for his performance in The Banshees of Inisherin. He will next star in Emerald Fennell’s Saltburn opposite Jacob Elordi. He recently signed on to star in the upcoming film Waves from Trey Edward Shults and The Weeknd, alongside Jenna Ortega.

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