Pedro Pascal has publicly expressed support for May Calamawy after her scenes were cut from Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II, a decision that has stirred debates online. Calamawy, an Egyptian-Palestinian actress best known for her role in Disney+’s Moon Knight, was set to play a significant role in the highly anticipated sequel but was absent from the final theatrical release.
Pascal shared behind-the-scenes photos on Instagram, including images of himself and Calamawy on set in Morocco. The post confirmed her involvement in the film, which had been omitted from promotional materials. Fans speculated about the reasons behind the omission, with some linking it to the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, although the studio has not provided an explanation.
Calamawy has maintained a positive outlook despite the setback. At London Comic Con, a fan revealed via Twitter that the actress described her time on the project as “one of the best experiences of her life.” She spoke highly of her interactions with the cast, including Denzel Washington, stating, “It was the coolest, and she felt immediately comfortable with him.”
The decision to cut Calamawy’s scenes has raised concerns about representation in Hollywood. Critics and fans have called for clarification from the studio, especially since Scott was reportedly keen on including her in the film. For now, Gladiator II continues to play in theaters worldwide, but the debate surrounding the actress’s omission persists.