Former child actor Spencer Treat Clark has spoken out about Paul Mescal playing the character he originated in the upcoming Gladiator sequel.

Spencer played youngster Lucius Verus in the original Oscar-winning movie, which is getting a much-hyped sequel more than 20 years on from its original release.

In the new film, the Normal People actor will take over as Lucius, who takes centre stage this time around.

Speaking to People magazine, Spencer insisted he had no hard feelings about handing his character over to another actor, noting: “The movie looks so good, and Paul’s going to do such a great job. I’ve actually heard great things about the movie.”

“I’m really excited to see the movie and to see what Paul brings to it,” he added.

In the 25 years since Gladiator was made, Spencer has continued acting, appearing in the Marvel TV series Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. and a new adaptation of Stephen King’s hit book Salem’s Lot, which arrived in UK cinemas last week.

As a child, he also appeared in the M. Night Shyamalan’s Unbreakable, reprising the role of Joseph Dunn in the sequel Glass.

Connie Nielsen and Derek Jacobi will also be back as the characters they played in the original Gladiator.