Scott’s “Napoleon” screenwriter David Scarpa penned the script. Scott’s original “Gladiator” collaborators, costume designer Janty Yates and production designer Arthur Max, are returning to the franchise. Scott Free President Michael Pruss, plus Doug Wick and Lucy Fisher via Red Wagon Entertainment, are producing.

Paul Mescal, who plays a grown-up Lucius in the sequel, shares his reaction to the twist: "Holy s---." Like father, like son.

The new trailer for Gladiator II confirms that Paul Mescal's Lucius is the son of Maximus, portrayed by Russell Crowe in the original film.