"The White Lotus" star Fred Hechinger is now in talks to take on the role of Emperor Geta, after Oscar nominee Barry Keoghan dropped out of negotiations due to a scheduling conflict.

The new additions join a star-studded cast, led by Oscar nominee Paul Mescal and two-time Oscar winner Denzel Washington, with “Stranger Things” breakout Joseph Quinn set to play Emperor Caracalla and Pedro Pascal in final negotiations for an undisclosed role. Ridley Scott is back to direct, with David Scarpa penning the script.

The new film follows the 2000 blockbuster Gladiator, which earned more than $460 million in worldwide box office and was nominated for 12 Oscars, winning five including Best Picture.

The role of Maximus, the Roman general-turned-gladiator, was a career-changer for Russell Crowe, not only delivering him the Best Actor Oscar but also launching him to the top of every leading-man list. Once it was made clear last year that the sequel would be Scott’s next movie, every male actor in town that fit the profile began chasing the part.

Also now hopping onboard are May Calamawy, Lior Raz, Peter Mensah and Matt Lucas whilst Derek Jacobi will reprise his role of Senator Gracchus – one of the few returning talents alongside Nielsen. “Moon Knight” actress Calamawy is playing the female lead in the film and beat out a lot of competition for the part.

They all join Joseph Quinn as Emperor Caracalla along with Denzel Washington and Pedro Pascal in unknown roles.

Source: Press Release