‘We had to tell this story’: 24 years after Gladiator, star confirms return for Ridley Scott sequel

24 years after playing Lucilla in Ridley Scott’s Gladiator alongside Russell Crowe (Maximus) and Joaquin Phoenix (Commodus), Connie Nielsen returns in Gladiator 2.

Unlike her two co-stars, her character did not die in the 2000 feature film and therefore returns in the sequel. His son Lucius, now played by Paul Mescali and Spencer no longer treats Clarke as in the previous part, will be the star of the epic.

In an interview given on an American website ComicBook.comConnie Nielsen confirmed Ridley Scott’s participation in the film and called the sequel a “magnificent performance.”

“I didn’t know what to expect when Gladiator 2 launched, and looking back, I think it was almost inevitable that we had to tell this story.”The Danish actor then adds: “It was incredible! As usual, Ridley has assembled a fantastic cast and the film is a great performance that touches your heart. As always with him, you have to use the extras.”

The announcement comes after Djimon Hounsou, who played Juba in the previous film, denied reports of his return.

Written by David Scarpa, who has already worked on Ridley Scott’s All the Money in the World and Napoleon, Gladiator 2 will take place 20 years after the first film and follow the lead of Lucius. Paul Mescal Which Ridley Scott discovered thanks to the normal people of the series. A great admirer of Maximus, son of Lucilla and nephew of Emperor Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix) is expected to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Roman general.

Paul Mescal and Connie Nielsen will be joined by Derek Jacobi, who reprises his role as Gracchus and newcomers to the world, Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn as Emperor Caracalla, Fred Hechinger, May Kalamavi and Lior Raz.

The shooting of Gladiator 2 resumed on December 4 after being halted due to the actors’ strike. The film is scheduled to be released in theaters on November 20, 2024.