Actor Paul Mescal joined “CBS Mornings” on Wednesday to discuss his role as Lucius in the upcoming film. “Gladiator II”, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2000 hit. Maximus and Lucilla’s son Lucius takes the spotlight as he fights in the arena 15 years after Maximus’ death.
When asked about preparing for this physically demanding role, Mescal joked when thinking back to his muscular transformation for the film.
“I was like, look at me with a certain level of jealousy,” he said.
Mescal revealed that he landed the role after a brief Zoom conversation with director Ridley Scott.
One of Mescal’s most memorable moments on set was filming with the legendary and Oscar-winning actor. Denzel Washington. Mescal described the experience as surreal.
“I was face to face with the great Denzel,” Mescal said. “It’s one of my favorite things about acting in general and it’s sort of amplified when you’re with Denzel. Those performances that people deeply admire, I get a front-row seat.”
Mescal praised Washington’s ability to balance intensity with the practicalities of being on a film set.
“He just knows how to modulate what is innately required,” Mescal said.
Reflecting on the global attention his career has garnered, Mescal said the film’s premiere in Dublin was particularly meaningful.
“Dublin really forced me or reminded me to be present,” he said. “Being welcomed home like that was really special.”
As for what he hopes audiences take away from “Gladiator II,” Mescal said, “It’s a movie that gives the audience a great opportunity to basically take away what they want.”
“Gladiator II” is scheduled to hit theaters on Friday, November 22.
