We can confirm that Russell Crowe does not return as Maximus in Gladiator 2 – at least not in new footage. The sequel's opening credits recap the events of the first movie, rendered in a gorgeous, painted style, while the movie does feature flashbacks that include Maximus as his legacy is a major aspect of the plot.

The actor who played Maximus Decimus Meridius in 2000's 'Gladiator' is set to face the Romans again in a new period film.

The movie’s director, Ridley Scott, spoke to The New York Times before the upcoming release of “Gladiator II” and revealed that the first few days of production didn’t go as planned – mainly because Phoenix was overwhelmed and Crowe believed his behavior was “unprofessional.”

A highly-anticipated sequel to one of the most iconic blockbusters of all time is finally hitting the big screen this week, but will the original film’s star Russell Crowe make an appearance?

Ridley Scott has revealed that Russell Crowe was left unimpressed by Gladiator co-star Joaquin Phoenix. The filmmaker, who has returned to direct a sequel 24 years after the original was released, shared the revelation ahead of question marks surrounding Phoenix’s professional conduct.

Ridley Scott reflected on the rocky start between his two lead actors, Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix, when filming 'Gladiator.'

It has been 24 years since Ridley Scott gave the world a glimpse of the Roman Empire in Gladiator. The film over the years has attained cult status and is lauded by one and all.