Gladiator 2 Release Date 2025, Cast, Trailer, Plot, Directed, Budget and More Details

March 15, 2025 by Penny Gusner

Gladiator 2 Cast list

•  Paul Mescal – Lucius Verus
•  Denzel Washington – Macrinus
•  Pedro Pascal – Marcus Acacius
•  Connie Nielsen – Lucilla
•  Derek Jacobi – Senator Gracchus
•  Joseph Quinn – co-emperor Caracalla
•  Fred Hechinger – co-emperor Geta
•  Tim McInnerny – Thraex
•  Lior Raz
•  Peter Mensah
• Matt Lucas
•  May Calamawy
•  Alexander Karim

Although the list provided is extensive, you might have observed that there are some names absent. Specifically, Djimon Hounsou, who portrayed Juba in the initial film, had to withdraw from the sequel because of scheduling conflicts. Additionally, Russell Crowe is noticeably absent in this follow-up.

Gladiator 2 Trailer

Gladiator 2 Details 2025

Directed by	Ridley Scott
Screenplay by	David Scarpa
Story by	Peter Craig David Scarpa
Produced by	Ridley Scott Michael Pruss Douglas Wick Lucy Fisher Walter F. Parkes Laurie MacDonald David Franzoni
Starring	Paul Mescal Pedro Pascal Connie Nielsen Denzel Washington
Cinematography	John Mathieson
Edited by	Claire Simpson Sam Restivo
Music by	Harry Gregson-Williams
Production companies	Scott Free Productions Red Wagon Entertainment P + M Image Nation
Distributed by	Paramount Pictures
Release dates	November 15, 2025 (United Kingdom) November 22, 2025 (United States)
Countries	United States United Kingdom
Language	English
Budget	$250–310 million

Gladiator 2 plot

The sequel to Gladiator will not feature Maximus Decimus Meridius, but will focus on Lucius Verus, the grandson of the former emperor of Rome, 15 years after the events of the first movie. Lucius will face a similar fate to Maximus, being forced into slavery after his home is attacked by General Marcus Acacius. Determined to seek revenge and challenge the new emperors, Caracalla and Geta, Lucius will fight as a gladiator in Gladiator 2.

In terms of background information, it is revealed that Gladiator 2 will explore Lucius’ early life. As per Vanity Fair, the audience will learn that Lucius’ mother, Lucilla, sent him to the northern coast of Africa as a means of protecting him, keeping the true heir safe from adversaries and pushing him to become stronger. However, it is suggested that Lucius harbors bitterness towards his mother, setting the stage for intense family conflicts in the upcoming film. The plot of Gladiator 2 is anticipated to be rich and engaging. It is advisable to revisit the first movie to fully grasp the intricate backstory and political landscape of ancient Rome.

Is Russell Crowe in Gladiator 2?

Regrettably, Russell Crowe is not currently involved in Gladiator 2, so do not anticipate any new footage or flashback appearances from him. While there may be some archived scenes from the original movie, Crowe has not filmed any new scenes for the sequel. It would not be fitting for the storyline to have Maximus return in Gladiator 2, as it would change the genre to horror. Stay tuned for any unexpected cameos or announcements.

What is the History behind Gladiator 2?

Gladiator 2, like its predecessor, is a highly fictionalized account of history. The real events involving Lucius Verus and Lucilla were different from the movie’s portrayal. Another historical reference is the strained relationship between emperors Caracalla and Geta, who attempted to rule together after their father’s death. Their conflict escalated to the point where Caracalla had Geta killed, leading to a period of ruthless rule and subsequent downfall.

Who is Writing and Directing Gladiator 2?

Scott directs Gladiator 2 from a script by David Scarpa. The duo collaborated on All the Money in the World and Napoleon. Scott, alongside Michael Pruss, Douglas Wick, Lucy Fisher, and David Franzoni, will produce Gladiator 2. Scott was nominated for an Oscar for Best Director for Gladiator.