While many people are excited for the long-awaited sequel to “Gladiator” (2000), for star Paul Mescal. I cannot wait for the film to watch “Gladiator II” (2024) for none other than Pedro Pascal. And no, I have not seen the first film and do not intend to.

In the film, Pascal’s character, Marcus Acacius, is a tough Roman general and gladiator who is also described as a good killer. 

Pascal’s costumes for this movie look incredible, making him all the more gorgeous. And when he says, “I claim this city for the glory of Rome” in the trailer. I am on the floor sobbing. He sounds so good.

However, given Pascal’s past roles, I am worried that his character will die a gruesome death, like Oberyn Martell in “Game of Thrones” (2011-2019) or Agent Whiskey in “Kingsmen: The Golden Circle” (2017). 

I still have trauma from watching his eyes popped out in the former. And I do not care if his character was evil in the latter. Seeing him be ground up in that meat grinder still haunts me.

This may surprise no one who knows me, but this is not the first time I have watched something just for Pascal, nor will it be the last.

I will be watching his upcoming film, “The Fantastic Four: The First Steps” (2025). I also have not seen the original films of this reboot — my only experience with the original characters is Chris Evans’s cameo in “Deadpool & Wolverine” (2024).

But not watching the originals does not change anything for me. I will continue to support Pascal and watch anything he puts out. 

I am waiting to watch “The Wild Robot” (2024) as well when it comes out on streaming platforms. Pascal’s face isn’t even in the film, just his voice, It is literally a children’s book adaptation of an animated movie.

But based on the edits I’ve seen on TikTok, Pascal’s voice as Fink has reinspired my love for egotistical fox characters. Yes, I am talking about Nick Wilde in “Zootopia” (2016).

Now, back to “Gladiator II.” While I may have not seen the first film — and have no intention to — I cannot wait for it to be released. I know Pascal is going to absolutely kill this role.

I have loved watching his stardom flourish since “The Last of Us” (2023). I have loved Pascal since “‘Kingsmen” and even remember watching him in “The Equalizer 2” (2018) when my parents would have it playing on TV.

Anyone who knows me knows that Pascal is my favorite actor and person. I love the man for more than just his beautiful appearance but for his ability to portray a character. He even makes me feel bad for a villain or random side character.

I cannot wait to see what Pascal does next.

Boggess can be reached at [email protected].