The eagerly awaited sequel to the five Oscar-winning epic 2000 film "Gladiator" seems to have a big name to offer. As American media consistently report, Oscar winner Denzel Washington (68) is said to be in final talks with the Paramount film studio regarding a role in Sir Ridley Scott's (85) film.

If the reports are true, it would be another collaboration between Washington and Scott after 2007's "American Gangster." Paul Mescal (27) and Barry Keoghan (30), who were recently nominated for an Oscar, have already been confirmed as the main actors in the sequel. The former is said to play the now adult version of the character Lucius, whose uncle Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix, 48) acted as the great antagonist in the first part. The report does not yet reveal what role Washington is to play.

In "Gladiator" Russell Crowe (58) played the main role of Maximus Decimus Meridius, a Roman general who is forced into slavery. He fights as a gladiator in the arena and seeks revenge on Commodus, who was responsible for the deaths of Maximus' wife and child. The film received twelve Oscar nominations and won five awards. Crowe triumphed as best actor and then started a successful career in Hollywood to this day. "Gladiator" was also honored in the category "Best Film".

As early as next year, the Roman Empire is to be brought to life once more on the big screen. Director Scott, who is known for his effective way of making films, therefore wants to bring "Gladiator 2" to US cinemas on November 22, 2024. The German theatrical release should not be far away.