In the most recent cast addition for Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator” sequel, “Stranger Things” actor Joseph Quinn joined Danish actor Connie Nielsen, who will be playing Lucilla once more from the first film.
Paul Mescal, who starred in “Aftersun,” plays the protagonist in the epic historical drama’s follow-up. Quinn will participate in the production as Emperor Caracalla, according to the entertainment website Variety.
Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, and Nielsen appeared in the 2000 film adaptation. Crowe played the part of Maximus, a Roman general turned gladiator who exacts revenge on those responsible for the deaths of his children and wife.
The sequel, set years after the events of the first film, will focus on Lucius (Mescal), the son of Lucilla (Nielsen) and the nephew of Commodus (Phoenix). Lucius and Lucilla were saved by Maximus when he defeated Commodus in combat, though he too succumbed to his injuries, allowing him to finally reunite with his murdered wife and son in the afterlife.
Scott will produce the film with Scott Free president Michael Pruss as well as Doug Wick and Lucy Fisher via Red Wagon Entertainment. Walter Parkes and Laurie MacDonald are executive producing.
The script is penned by David Scarpa. Hollywood veteran Denzel Washington is also set to star in the upcoming film, but details about his characters are under wraps. Barry Keoghan is negotiations to play Emperor Geta.