Joaquin Phoenix’s first Academy Award nomination was for the role of Emperor Commodus in the first Gladiator film. The role went down in history as one of the best movie villains of that decade. So to walk in the footsteps of the legacy of such a performance and a character would have been a challenge for any actor.
Thankfully, Gladiator II was blessed with, not one, but two evil emperors with magnificent performances: Joseph Quinn as Emperor Geta and Fred Hechinger as Emperor Caracalla. Recently, we were given the opportunity to speak with Hechinger about his amazing performance in the film!
Over the last few years, Hechinger has made significant progress as one of the most talented young actors in Hollywood today. With amazing turns in Eight Grade, Thelma, The White Lotus, and now Gladiator II, Hechinger has been on a meteoric rise, showcasing his charm and charisma with every character he embodies. As Caracalla, he’s equal parts hilarious and terrifying. We couldn’t wait to chat with him about the inspiration behind his corrupt character in Gladiator II and how the story relates to politics today.
Here’s what he had to say to Laura:
You can see Hechinger in Gladiator II when it hits theaters November 22!