Roland Emmerich’s upcoming gladiator period drama, Those About to Die, has landed Anthony Hopkins in a major role.
It’s all Gladiator, all the time around here lately as we have more Gladiator news coming your way, this time for the small screen. As reported a week or so ago, Normal People star Paul Mescal is in negotiations to lead the highly anticipated sequel to the 2000 hit film, Gladiator, playing a grown-up Lucius Verus. Well today, AGC Television Chairman/CEO Stuart Ford has announced the first cast member for the upcoming television adaptation, Those About to Die, and it’s a big one.
Two-time Academy Award® winner Anthony Hopkins has joined the spectacular historical epic series in the pivotal role of Emperor Vespasian. The series is to be Directed/Executive Produced by internationally renowned filmmaker Roland Emmerich (Independence Day, Godzilla) and written by lauded Academy Award® nominated writer Robert Rodat (Saving Private Ryan, Thor: The Dark World).
Those About to Die (a reference to a line in the 2000 film) is an epic drama set in the complex and corrupt world of spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition. The series introduces an ensemble of diverse characters from all parts of Roman society who collide at the intersection of sports, politics and dynasties of the ancient world.
Hopkins plays Vespasian, the Emperor of Rome and head of the Flavian bloodline, and who is described as a, “battle tested, a rural upstart who claimed his throne after victory in a bloody ten-year civil war. He is aging and is despised by the Patricians jockeying for position in the Empire and looking to supplant his heirs to the throne the first chance they get.”
While no other details have been released, when talking to TV Line recently, Emmerich said about the shows plot, “At its heart, this is a sports epic led by strong and diverse characters who explore paths to glory, falls from grace and a need to belong to something greater than oneself.” So, there you go, if you’re hoping for more than just two dudes fighting, look like you’re in luck.
Peacock, who gave the show a straight to series order, will take care of the broadcasting in the US.
For more information, visit www.peacocktv.com.
