A report claims Ridley Scott blamed Paul Mescal’s absence from his film The Dog Stars on the actor allegedly not being “masculine enough,” linked to negativity surrounding Gladiator 2. In response, Scott’s spokesperson denies that Scott made such comments.
According to PinkNews, the spokesperson says Scott “loves Paul” and attributes Mescal’s departure to a rehearsal clash rather than any assessment of his appearance or qualities. NME similarly describes the new report but frames it around the allegation that Scott connected audience or press criticism of Gladiator 2 to Mescal, suggesting this may have influenced casting or production decisions.
While both outlets reference the same reported controversy, they differ in emphasis: NME relays the claims made in the new report, whereas PinkNews highlights the denial and offers an alternative explanation tied to scheduling and rehearsals. No sources in the provided material substantiate the alleged “masculine enough” remark beyond the contested report.
