Hold onto your helmets—Gladiator II is heading to theaters on November 22, 2024, and it’s bringing all the intense, muscle-packed action we’ve been craving. With Ridley Scott returning as director, fans can expect a mix of brutal battles, epic heroics, and just the right amount of heart. But let’s be real—what really has people buzzing? The lineup of hot guys about to clash in the Colosseum.
But how gay is the Roman Empire? According to Denzel Washington… VERY!
Washington plays Macrinus, a “Roman businessman who has amassed enormous wealth thanks to his acumen and brutal ambition.”
Washington, who plays Macrinus, a ruthless Roman businessman with a wealth of power and ambition, recently let slip that things got unexpectedly close on set.
“I kissed the man in the film, but they took it,” Washington revealed, leaving us shocked—and, let’s be real, a bit disappointed. First, we heard about the cut forehead kiss between Pedro Pascal and Paul Mescal, and now this? Washington’s take? “I guess they’re not ready for that.” Well, we definitely are!
The actor added with a laugh, “I killed him about 5 minutes later.” Because, well, when in Rome…
“The kiss of death,” he concluded, alluding to a symbolic gesture marking betrayal or sealing someone’s fate.
With flashy rings and an insatiable thirst for power, Macrinus truly has it all. “Hey, you gotta stay aHEAD of the game,” Washington joked.
Watch the full interview here:
Related | Sabrina Carpenter and Jenna Ortega Kiss in New ‘Taste’ Music Video
The Rise of Lucius: Rome’s New Hero
Gladiator II picks up years after Maximus (Russell Crowe) captivated the Colosseum in the original film. This time, the story follows Lucius, played by Normal People’s Paul Mescal, as he rises from the ashes of his conquered home. Forced into the brutal life of a gladiator, Lucius must rely on his wits and warrior instincts to survive the treacherous sands of the arena. He’s on a mission to bring Rome back to its former glory—and yes, he’s looking mighty good doing it.
All-Star Cast with Major Fighting Skills
Joining Mescal is a powerhouse cast that promises to bring the heat. Washington steps into a mysterious role—someone with enough influence in the Colosseum to be friend, foe, or something in between. Then there’s Stranger Things star Joseph Quinn, who’s set to play a close gladiator comrade to Lucius. Together, these actors are ready to give us the grit, brawn, and intensity we want from a Roman epic.
Fans are already hyped to see Mescal and Pedro Pascal wielding swords, embracing the gritty world of gladiators.
The Perfect Blend of Brutality and Beauty
Ridley Scott’s original Gladiator redefined the historical epic with raw action scenes and emotional depth. Gladiator II is set to double down on that formula, bringing fans closer to the heat of battle while showcasing the intensity and camaraderie among the gladiators. With a Roman setting, a top-tier cast, and the promise of high-stakes fights, this sequel has everything an action fan could ask for.
So mark your calendars for Gladiator II—where the Colosseum will light up with combat, courage, and a whole lot of muscle.
If you look closely while watching, maybe you can spot who the mystery man Denzel smooched. Gladiator II is out in theaters on November 22.
More Stories:
- Linda Cardellini and Liz Feldman on Crafting Complex Queer Characters in ‘No Good Deed’
- Doechii Schools on Bisexuality with Honesty and Grace – “I think that sexuality is fluid”
- TikToker Reveals Surprising ‘Grindr Wrapped’ Results, Opens Up About Hookup Culture
- Is Luigi Mangione Bisexual or Gay? New Details on the CEO Murder Suspect
- LGBTQ+ Stars and Stories Shine Bright at the 2025 Golden Globes
