Gladiator 2 is finally here, and Pedro Pascal's character is mightily similar to Russell Crowe's iconic Maximus, but with a far darker twist.

A highly-anticipated sequel to one of the most iconic blockbusters of all time is finally hitting the big screen this week, but will the original film’s star Russell Crowe make an appearance?

Gladiator II has finally been released, with the long-awaited sequel to the 2000 film following the journey of Maximus' son Lucius, but does Russell Crowe return as Maximus?

Gladiator II is now in cinemas and continues the story of Maximus Decimus Meridius' son Lucius, but is Russell Crowe back as Maximus?

While undoubtedly entertaining, the sequel feels like a duplicate of the original which sacrifices characterisation for ambitious set pieces.

We can confirm that Russell Crowe does not return as Maximus in Gladiator 2 – at least not in new footage. The sequel's opening credits recap the events of the first movie, rendered in a gorgeous, painted style, while the movie does feature flashbacks that include Maximus as his legacy is a major aspect of the plot.

It has been 24 years since Ridley Scott gave the world a glimpse of the Roman Empire in Gladiator. The film over the years has attained cult status and is lauded by one and all.