Barry Keoghan to Join Ridley Scott's GLADIATOR Sequel

Barry Keoghan (Dunkirk,  The Banshees of Inisherin) is in negotiations to join Ridley Scott’s Gladiator sequel. He will join the previously cast Paul Mescal set to take on the role of Lucius, the son of Lucilla (Connie Nielsen), and nephew of Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix) from the original film.

Keoghan is will play Emperor Geta if he and the studio manage to close the deal. Publius Septimius Geta was a Roman emperor who ruled jointly with his brother, Caracalla, from 209 to 211 AD. He was born in 189 AD to the Emperor Septimius Severus and his wife, Julia Domna. Geta is described as being intelligent and cultured, but also as a cruel and untrustworthy individual.

During his short reign, Geta focused on consolidating his power and strengthening his position within the empire. He made some efforts to improve the lives of the people by reducing taxes and increasing public entertainment. However, he also engaged in brutal purges of potential rivals and enemies, which earned him the animosity of many within the Roman elite.

In 211 AD, Geta was assassinated by his own brother, Caracalla, during a meeting arranged to reconcile their differences. Caracalla subsequently ordered the murder of all those perceived to be Geta's supporters, leading to a bloody and violent period in Roman history known as the "Year of the Five Emperors." Despite his brief and controversial reign, Geta is remembered as one of the Roman emperors who contributed to the instability and decline of the Roman Empire.

I’m not sure how accurate the film will be in regards to this character, but it seems like a great role for Keoghan to take on! Also returning from the original film are costume designer Janty Yates and production designer Arthur Max.

Source: Deadline