Why Ridley Scott Didn’t Consult Russell Crowe for Gladiator 2

Ridley Scott directed Russell Crowe in the first Gladiator movie back in 2000, but he didn’t involve him in the upcoming sequel, Gladiator II.

Now Scott has confirmed his reasoning, and to be honest, it’s perfect logic. Speaking to Empire, the director said: “I think he’s still one of the best actors in the world, and I think we have a good relationship. I hope we do. As long as he doesn’t start bitching about how he wasn’t consulted. Why would I? He’s dead!”

Gladiator II takes place in the years following the events of Gladiator. It follows Lucius (Paul Mescal), who fights to restore Rome to glory as two powerful emperors (Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger) look to conquer it.

Just because Crowe’s Maximus is long-passed, however, he could have still shown up in the form of a flashback. The first film managed to give Oliver Reed’s Proximo a full arc despite him dying halfway through shooting. But Scott stands by his decision to omit Crowe, both in front of the camera, and behind it as a consultant.

Gladiator II also stars Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn, Rory McCann, and Derek Jacobi. It opens in the US November 22, and in the UK 15 November. Make sure to check out our Gladiator II training tips and get ripped Like Pedro Pascal and Paul Mescal.