Up-and-coming Irish actor Paul Mescal opened up about his initial nerves meeting legendary actor Denzel Washington on the set of the upcoming film Gladiator II. Mescal recently recalled feeling anxious about approaching Washington for their first interaction during filming. On his second day working with Washington, Mescal finally built up the courage to introduce himself at the bottom of the filming box steps.
Speaking on a recent episode of The Graham Norton Show alongside fellow actors Saoirse Ronan and Eddie Redmayne, Mescal shared that he had been practicing intense physical preparation for his role in the movie. This included weight lifting and high protein meals. However, on his first day filming a scene together, Mescal admits he backed away from speaking with Washington who was overseeing filming from above. The next day, Mescal stood waiting at the bottom of the steps,determined to say hello.
When they finally met, Mescal said shaking Washington’s hand felt “extraordinary.” The encounter also included some lighthearted advice. Washington playfully told Mescal to ease up on the intense workout regimen. Despite finding the physical training “fun”, Redmayne said past similar experiences left him feeling “drained.”
Now settled into filming, Washington has become one of Mescal’s strongest advocates for his performance. He drew comparisons to Russell Crowe’s acclaimed role in the original film. “This kid delivered,” Washington declared, referring to how both actors embodied their roles. Set for release in November, Gladiator II follows the adult nephew of Emperor Commodus seeking vengeance against the Roman army, 24 years after the original film. Washington plays an ex-gladiator with aspirations for power in the sequel.
