Film fans were shocked last year when it was confirmed that Gladiator would be receiving a sequel movie: Gladiator 2.
Of course, this has kickstarted a number of questions towards the original film’s cast, including Russell Crowe.
The Australian actor played protagonist Maximus Decimus Meridius in the first movie and won the Best Actor Oscar that same year for his performance.
But now, he has explained the scrutiny on him since Gladiator 2’s announcement has left him furious.
Crowe said: “They should be f*****g paying me for the amount of questions I am asked about a film I am not even in.”
Crowe was speaking at a press conference at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival, where he complained about being hounded about the movie. He went on to point out that his character was ceremoniously killed off at the end of the picture. (via Variety)
“It has nothing to do with me,” he explained. “In that world, I am dead. Six feet under.”
Despite how frustrated he has become about being questioned on the film, the 59-year-old did confess he had felt a lot of envy for the upcoming film.
Crowe said: “I do admit to a certain tinge of jealousy, because it reminds me of when I was younger and what it meant for me, in my life.”
Going on to speak broadly about the film, he said: “I don’t know anything about the cast, I don’t know anything about the plot – I am dead!
“But I know that if Ridley has decided to do a second part of the story, over 20 years later, he must have had very strong reasons. I can’t think of this movie being anything other than spectacular.”
Gladiator 2 is due to hit cinemas in 2024, and has an incredibly star-studded cast.
Not only is Paul Mescal the film’s protagonist, he’ll be joined by Denzel Washington, Connie Nielsen, Stranger Things’ Joseph Quinn, Pedro Pascal and even Matt Lucas.
Watch Gladiator on Prime Video now.
Gladiator 2 will hit cinemas on November 22, 2024.
