Get ready for a cinematic clash of swords and immortality—the Highlander remake is expanding its cast and gearing up for production, but not without a few dramatic twists along the way. And this is the part most people miss: the project has already faced delays due to Henry Cavill’s injury, but it’s now set to begin filming in early 2026, promising a fresh take on the beloved classic. But here’s where it gets controversial—does this iconic story really need a reboot, or is Hollywood stretching for franchise gold? Let’s dive in.
The cast of the Highlander remake continues to grow, with four new additions joining the ranks of immortals and mortals alike. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Kevin McKidd (known for Grey’s Anatomy), Siobhán Cullen (Bodkin), Jun Jong-seo (Project Y), and Nassim Lyes (Under Paris) have signed on for the film. Their roles are still shrouded in mystery, though Cullen is set to play a police psychiatrist who uncovers the existence of immortals—a twist that could add intriguing layers to the story. Jong-seo will join The Watchers, a secretive group monitoring the immortals, while Lyes will portray an immortal hunting down Connor MacLeod, played by Henry Cavill. As for McKidd’s role? Fans are hoping for an immortal Roman soldier, but only time will tell.
Speaking of immortals, the film’s ensemble is nothing short of stellar. Russell Crowe steps into the role of Ramirez, the wise swordsman who mentors MacLeod. Karen Gillan stars as MacLeod’s Scottish wife, while Marisa Abela plays his modern-day love interest. Djimon Hounsou brings depth as an immortal warrior from Africa, and Jeremy Irons takes on the role of the leader of The Watchers, a group that views immortals as a threat to humanity. Max Zhang and WWE superstar Drew McIntyre are also on board, with McIntyre playing Angus MacLeod, Connor’s brother.
Production was originally slated for fall 2023, but Cavill’s injury during training pushed filming to early 2026. Once cameras roll, the crew will shoot in Scotland, England, and Hong Kong, promising a visually stunning backdrop for the epic battles to come. Bautista, who’s part of the project, has teased John Wick-level action sequences, calling the script a “great reboot” that honors the original while expanding its universe. “It’s bigger than you imagine,” he said, hinting at a scale that could redefine the franchise.
But let’s address the elephant in the room: Does Highlander really need a remake? Some argue that few films do, but director Chad Stahelski sees this as an opportunity to build a cohesive mythology from the ground up. With Cavill’s star power and the film’s ambitious franchise aspirations, it’s a gamble that could pay off—or fall flat. And that’s the beauty of it: whether you’re a die-hard fan of the original or a newcomer, this reboot promises something fresh and unexpected.
What do you think? Is the Highlander remake a necessary addition to cinema, or is Hollywood milking a classic? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
