Denzel Washington is known for commanding the screen, but audiences won’t get to see one bold moment from his latest film, Gladiator II.
In a recent interview with Gayety, the Oscar-winning actor opened up about portraying Roman Emperor Macrinus in Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated sequel. When asked about the dynamics of the Roman Empire and its history, Washington revealed a surprising detail about a scene that didn’t make the final cut.
“I actually kissed a man in the film, but they took it out. They cut it,” Washington said, explaining that the bold scene didn’t make it to theaters. “I think they got chicken.”
The actor elaborated further, saying, “I kissed a guy full on the lips. I guess they weren’t ready for that yet.” He humorously referred to the moment as a “kiss of death,” as his character kills the man shortly afterward in the narrative.
Ridley Scott, returning to direct the sequel to his 2000 epic Gladiator, is known for his meticulous attention to detail and evocative storytelling. Washington’s co-star, Paul Mescal, shared his own anecdote about on-screen kisses.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Mescal, who plays another central figure in the sequel, recalled a spontaneous idea during a fight rehearsal with fellow cast member Pedro Pascal.
“I had an idea towards the end of the scene to kiss Pedro on the forehead,” he said. After one take, he sought Ridley Scott’s approval, asking, “Ridley: Kiss on the forehead, did you like it? Yay or nay?”
To Mescal’s surprise, Scott’s radio response crackled back with: “I’m afraid I did.”
Gladiator II brings a stellar cast, including Washington, Mescal, and Pedro Pascal, into the cinematic world of Ancient Rome. While fans may miss out on Washington’s daring same-sex kiss, the film promises intense drama, powerful performances, and Scott’s signature grandeur.
Mark your calendars—Gladiator II is set to hit theaters on November 22. Will it deliver another Oscar-worthy spectacle? Time will tell, but the behind-the-scenes stories already have fans buzzing.