Paul Mescal was prepared to step into the arena on his own terms. The star of “Gladiator II” disclosed that while preparing for the physically demanding role, he made two things non-negotiable. “I had a trainer who was relentless, circling me like a predator, and he said, ‘There’s potential here,’” Mescal, 28, recounted during his appearance on the U.K.’s “Graham Norton Show,” as reported by US Weekly. “He pushed me hard, and I saw him daily. It was enjoyable.”

“I followed all his instructions, but I enjoy drinking and smoking,” the actor confessed, “so I set boundaries regarding those habits.” However, Mescal emphasized the importance of balance, admitting he consumed “plenty of chicken and lifted heavy weights.”

“Gladiator II” is set 20 years after the original “Gladiator” film, which featured Russell Crowe. In the sequel, Mescal portrays the adult Lucius Verus II, the son of Crowe’s character, Maximus, who, like his father, is enslaved and becomes a gladiator to gain his freedom.

Mescal also shared how he secured the role after a brief Zoom call with director Ridley Scott. “Ridley doesn’t waste time,” he explained to Graham Norton. “I expected camera tests and auditions, but we spoke for just 30 minutes, 10 about the role and 20 about Gaelic football, his dog, and his wife.”

“I thought there would be more steps, but he offered me the part a few weeks later,” Mescal continued. “I believe he trusts his instincts both on and off set, and I’m grateful it worked out that way.” The film also features Pedro Pascal and Denzel Washington, who plays Lucius’ mentor, Macrinus, a former slave.

Reflecting on meeting Washington, 69, on set, Mescal said, “It was a significant day for me—truly amazing. I spent the first day hesitating to introduce myself, standing there for minutes before deciding, ‘Not today.’ The next day, I mustered the courage.”

In July, Mescal showcased his physical transformation after Pascal, 49, posted a shirtless photo of Mescal on social media. In the Instagram picture, Mescal sported a fake scar and a slight beard while wearing just a burlap skirt and gold cuffs in his trailer. Pascal captioned the photo with a film poster, “Come and get it. #Gladiator2 November 22.” Fans enthusiastically responded, with one user commenting, “This is a lot for a Monday,” and another adding, “Let’s get em papa.” “Gladiator II” is set to hit theaters on Friday, November 22.

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