Fact check: Is Russel Crowe's Maximus in Gladiator 2?

Gladiator 2, the sequel to its predecessor, will be released in theaters on November 15 in the United Kingdom and November 22 in the United States. Gladiator 2 continues the success of the first film but focuses on Lucius. The new film picks up almost two decades after the first.

The sequel follows Lucius, Lucilla's son, through Roman politics and battles. Lucius' journey resembles Maximus' in the plot. This time, Lucius' struggle, growth and redemption are the focus.

The film stars Paul Mescal as Lucius, Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington and Connie Nielsen, who reprises Lucilla. Maximus was excluded because he died in the original film, so Ridley Scott and his team proposed a new narrative direction.

Although Gladiator fans expected Russell Crowe's Maximus would return, but he's not returning at all. Crowe played Maximus in Gladiator 1, so his return is anticipated, but his character dies in the first movie, and the second movie goes ahead with no connection to him.

The official synopsis of the second film says:

After his home is conquered by the tyrannical Emperors who now lead Rome, Lucius is forced to enter the Colosseum and must look to his past to find strength to return the glory of Rome to its people.

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Russell Crowe's Maximus: Absence in Gladiator 2 explained

Maximus, played by Russell Crowe, died in Gladiator, but that didn't completely remove his chances to return in the sequel. The new film mostly features Lucius' memories and Maximus' legacy. And eventually, the creators decided to exclude Maximus to avoid overshadowing the new protagonist.

Lucius' story would be diluted if Maximus were part of the narrative. The sequel aims to chart a fresh path, following Lucius' experiences and development.

Involving Maximus would have distracted from this goal, as his character had a dominating presence in the original film. By removing Maximus, the filmmakers provide Lucius with the space needed to thrive and captivate the audience.

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Russell Crowe wasn't offered a role in the new sequel

Interestingly, Russell Crowe was never offered a role in the new movie. Crowe sid in an interview that he was never asked to participate in the project.

The new film is set long after Maximus' death and doesn't involve him. It shows the filmmakers' dedication to reimagining the film's storyline while honoring it.

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Maximus' legacy in the sequel

The absence of Maximus doesn't mean his character is forgotten. Gladiator 2 pays homage to Maximus in various ways, including scenes that reflect on his life and achievements.

Lucius admires Maximus' armor and weapons, and there are shrines and other symbols that remind viewers of the legendary gladiator's impact. These elements serve as subtle nods to the past while allowing the new story to unfold independently.

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The plot of Gladiator 2

The plot of Gladiator 2 follows Lucius as he grows up in Roman North Africa. Defeated in battle and sold into slavery, Lucius has a journey that mirrors Maximus', filled with struggles and personal growth. Lucius' tale is one of redemption and revenge, echoing the themes of the original movie.

About the film, Paul Mescal, on-screen Luscius, said in an interview with Vanity Fair:

"What human beings will do to survive, but also what human beings will do to win. We see that in the arena, but also in the political struggle that's going on outside of my character's storyline, where you see there’s other characters striving and pulling for power.

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Connections to the original Gladiator

The sequel has many Gladiator references. Connie Nielsen reprises Lucilla, while Sir Derek Jacobi reprises Senator Gracchus. These returning characters provide continuity between the films.

New characters like Pedro Pascal's Marcus Acacius have ties to Maximus, linking the sequel with its predecessor. This mix of old and new enhances the story and engages fans to watch the upcoming Gladiator 2.