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Denzel Washington Trends Following Release of ‘Gladiator II’ Promo Trailer

A striking poster of Washington has particularly captivated audiences, and it’s very much giving us ‘Training Day’ meets Rome!

A newly released Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator II” promo quickly made Academy Award-winner Denzel Washington a trending topic early Tuesday morning.

The trailer for the upcoming epic historical drama, which stars Washington alongside Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen, and others, has been officially unveiled. According to the film’s summary,Gladiator II” follows Lucius, played by Pascal, the son of Maximus' love Lucilla, after Maximus' death. 

However, a particular poster featuring Washington has ignited conversations across X, formerly known as Twitter. The striking artwork reveals only half of Washington's face, highlighting his gray-bearded visage and intense expression, accentuated by a slight furrow in his brow. Notably, the “Man on Fire” star also sports a single gold hoop earring in his left ear in the image.

RELATED: Ice Spice Tapped in Spike Lee's Film, 'High Low' Opposite Denzel Washington

Paramount Pictures

Denzel Washington as Macrinus for Ridley Scott’s "Gladiator 2"

The photo appeared only to heighten the anticipation for the film. One online user commented, “He got the Michael Jordan hoop earring in so I’m anticipating a [fire emoji] Denzel classic.”

“Effortlessly fione [sic]. I wouldn't care what this man was acting out. I'm watching,” added another onlooker.  A third person noted, “He kinda look like he did in ‘Training Day.’ Fine”

Washington is slated to star in the upcoming film “High Low,” a collaboration between Apple Original Films and A24, directed by his longtime collaborator Spike Lee. Bronx native Ice Spice will make her acting debut alongside him in the movie.

Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator 2” hits theaters on November 22. Check out the trailer below. 

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