Interestingly, this debate also raged overGladiator II’s story.
As it turns out,Gladiator’sMaximus Decimus Meridius is not based on any one person.
Perhaps the most notable influence when creating the character of Maximus was Marcus Nonius Macrinus.
Similarly, Marcus Nonius Macrinus was a Roman general under the rule of Marcus Aurelius.
In the early drafts ofGladiator, Maximus was called Narcissus.
This means that Phoenix’s Commodus was also based on a real-life figure.
Custom Image by Lewis Glazebrook
Commodus became Emperor in 180 AD, with his reign lasting until 192 AD.
This links to Commodus' depiction inGladiator.
In the film, Commodus is also depicted as a narcissistic character.
Gladiator follows Maximus, a Roman general betrayed by the new emperor Commodus. After escaping execution, he is enslaved and becomes a gladiator. Set in ancient Rome, the story portrays his struggle for survival and quest for vengeance as he battles for his freedom in the arena.
He deems himself worthy of being Marcus Aurelius' successor despite the latter choosing Maximus as the next Emperor.
Just as Commodus was real, so too was Lucilla.
One of the similarities between the real Lucilla and Connie Nielsen’s character inGladiatoris that she conspired against Commodus.
In real life, Lucilla tried to have Commodus slain by two men as he entered a theater.
The attempt failed and Lucilla fled Rome, eventually being found and killed by Commodus' men.
InGladiator, Lucilla’s conspiracy against Commodus still fails, yet she survives after Maximus kills him.
In real life, Lucius Verus II was born to Lucius Verus and Lucilla.
Gladiator IImakes this change even greater thanks to the recasting of Paul Mescal as the character.
Other Characters In Gladiator Who Were Real
Some of the supporting characters inGladiatorwere also real people.
One is Senator Falco, the politician who helps Commodus consolidate his power.
This character was likely based on the real Roman politician Quintus Pompeius Falco.
Then there are Maximus' two gladiator allies, Juba and Hagen.
After escaping execution, he is enslaved and becomes a gladiator.
