"Gladiator 2" to Begin Production Later This Year

The highly-anticipated sequel to the 2000 historic epic movie “Gladiator“ will begin filming later this year and could be ready to go as early as 2024.

Principal photography is slated to kick off in Morocco this May.

The sequel was announced in 2018 and sees Filmmaker Ridley Scott returning as director to the follow-up of his war movie.

Scott is currently on the hunt for leads in the project.

Irish actor Paul Mescal, known for his roles in “Aftersun” and “Normal People”, is in talks to star in the sequel.

Scott is also set to produce the project along with Scott Free President Michael Pruss and Red Wagon Entertainment’s Doug Wick and Lucy Fisher. David Scarpa wrote the screenplay. Paramount will produce the movie.

Universal, which backed the first movie along with DreamWorks, has the right to co-produce the movie once it has been set up.

"Gladiator 2" is described by producers as a “legitimate” follow-up. It is scripted by Peter Craig and will take place in a 25-30 year time jump.

The sequel follows Lucius, the son of Lucilla (Connie Nielsen) in the original. The role was played by Spencer Treat Clark in the 2000 movie.

"Gladiator" starred Russell Crowe as a former Roman General who was sent into slavery before seeking revenge against the emperor who murdered his family.

The blockbuster was a critical and commercial hit, earning $460m globally, and also won five Academy Awards, including the coveted best picture gong and best actor for Crowe, while also scooping a string of other accolades including Baftas and Golden Globes.