Find Out Why Barry Keoghan Departed 'Gladiator II,' According to Director Ridley Scott

Gladiator II director Ridley Scott opened up about how close we came to getting Barry Keoghan in the movie.

The highly anticipated sequel to the 2000 blockbuster arrives in theaters on November 22 starring the likes of Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington and Joseph Quinn.

However, fans might not know that Joseph joined the movie after Barry had to drop out of the cast in early 2023.

In a new interview, Ridley opened up about what led to the casting change. He also made it clear that there was no bad blood over it by paying Barry a lofty compliment.

Keep reading to find out more…

Speaking to The New York Times, Ridley explained that the actor’s schedule wasn’t working for the movie.

“Barry got locked into Saltburn,” he explained.

Although the movie cost him a star, the director continued, saying, “I think that’s maybe the best film I’ve seen this year.”

“Anyway, Barry is one of the good ones, the same level as Joaquin Phoenix and and Paul. Barry is so complex and actually has it under control. I know he’s a bit of a challenge, but he’s worth it. Like deciding on Joaquin, it’s worth it.”

Elsewhere in the interview, he recalled a tense moment from the first movie, which involved Joaquin and his costar Russell Crowe.