Russell Crowe's ghost continues to loom over the Gladiator sequel, leaving the film struggling to find its footing.
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Despite Maximus' death, director Ridley Scott is reportedly still determined to bring Crowe back in some capacity, even if it means stretching the story's logic.
Test audiences have been lukewarm on the script's attempts to integrate Crowe's character, leading to multiple rewrites and delays that have production insiders worried about the film's 2025 release.