How Paul Mescal Took the Lead in 'Gladiator 2' from Another Star

Berfin Ceren Meray
Onedio Member
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The highly anticipated sequel, Gladiator 2, is already being hailed by critics as one of the greatest films of all time. At the heart of the action is Paul Mescal, whose casting has sparked a lot of buzz. But here's the twist – Mescal wasn’t the original choice for the role! In a revealing interview with Hollywood Reporter, director Ridley Scott shared how another actor was initially set to star, only for the role to unexpectedly land in Mescal's hands. Want to know why? Read on for all the surprising details!

The sequel to Gladiator, Gladiator 2, has hit theaters worldwide and received rave reviews from critics, with many calling it "one of the greatest films of all time."

A major factor in this praise is the stellar performances from the lead actors Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, and Denzel Washington. In particular, Denzel Washington's portrayal of his character has been highlighted as carrying the entire film.

Paul Mescal, a 28-year-old Irish actor, has become one of the rising stars of recent years.

From his performances in films like All of Us Strangers to Aftersun, he has earned a significant fan base and critical acclaim.

The director of Gladiator 2 revealed in an interview with Hollywood Reporter that he had originally considered Timothée Chalamet for the lead role.

However, after seeing Paul Mescal's performance in the TV series Normal People, he changed his mind. The director praised Mescal's chemistry with Daisy Edgar-Jones and his portrayal of Lucius, ultimately deciding to cast him for the role. While he acknowledged that Timothée Chalamet might have been a box-office draw, he believes that Paul Mescal's star is rising fast and that he was the right choice.

What are your thoughts on Paul Mescal landing the lead role in Gladiator 2 instead of Timothée Chalamet?