Ridley Scott Sets the Record Straight on Paul Mescal ‘Masculine’ Feud Rumor

Ridley Scott has broken his silence on the feud rumor involving Paul Mescal. Previously, a source alleged that Scott blamed Mescal for Gladiator II’s disappointing performance. Furthermore, the source stated that the filmmaker said that the Normal People actor was “not masculine enough” for the Gladiator role.

However, a representative for Scott disputed the rumor by issuing a statement to Entertainment Weekly. The rep stated that the rumor was “not true,” adding, “Ridley loves Paul and was excited to work with him on Dog Stars after having [enjoyed] such a great collaboration on Gladiator II. Sadly, Paul’s rehearsal schedule for another film prevented him from ultimately doing Ridley’s film.”

Mescal was initially set to star in the director’s The Dog Stars; however, he backed out of the movie and was replaced by Jacob Elordi. The rep continued, “While he was disappointed to lose Paul, he was thrilled to get the chance to work with Jacob, who was excellent in the role.”

What Led to Paul Mescal’s Exit From The Dog Stars?

According to previous rumors, Ridley Scott’s alleged comments about Paul Mescal’s masculinity were cited as the reason for the actor’s exit from The Dog Stars.

However, Mescal’s exit was also linked to his involvement with the four-part biopic movie series on The Beatles by Sam Mendes. In the biopic, he will portray Paul McCartney.

This was previously confirmed by Scott himself during the 2024 Directors Guild of America screening. During this, he said, “Paul is actually stacked up, doing the Beatles next. So I may have to let him go.”

The long-awaited sequel to Russell Crowe’s Oscar-winning Gladiator earned $460 million worldwide at the box office. Moreover, it currently has a 70% Tomatometer score and an 80% Popcornmeter score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Ridley Scott’s latest movie, The Dog Stars, also features Margaret Qualley and Josh Brolin alongside Elordi, and it’s currently in theaters.

Source: Comingsoon.net