Jacob Elordi In Talks to Replace Paul Mescal in Ridley Scott’s ”the Dog Stars”
It looks like Jacob Elordi might be stepping into the post-apocalyptic world of “The Dog Stars.” According to Variety, the actor is in talks to replace Paul Mescal in the Ridley Scott-directed film.
Mescal’s scheduling conflict forced him to bow out of the project.
The original plan was for him to reunite with Scott after his role in ”
Gladiator II.” However, he’s now set to play Paul McCartney in Sam Mendes’ four-part Beatles biopic. IndieWire has reached out to representatives for comment on the casting change.
A Post-Apocalyptic Dogfight
Based on Peter heller’s 2012 novel, “The Dog Stars” tells the story of Hig, a pilot who faces the harsh realities of a world ravaged by a devastating pandemic. In this desolate landscape, Hig finds companionship in an ex-Marine gunman as they battle a group of scavengers known as Reapers. Elordi is set to play the role of Hig.
Ridley Scott Sets Sights on “The Dog stars” After Bee Gees biopic
Acclaimed director Ridley Scott is gearing up to tackle another ambitious project after wrapping production on his highly anticipated Bee Gees biopic. Scott’s next venture will be a big-screen adaptation of Peter Heller’s acclaimed 2012 novel, “The Dog Stars.”
The post-apocalyptic tale follows hig, a solitary man living in a desolate Colorado wilderness, yearning for connection amid a world ravaged by an unseen plague. Hig’s only companions are his loyal dog Jasper and a battered aircraft, which he uses for scavenging missions in the ravaged landscape.
Bringing Heller’s poignant story to life are screenwriters Mark L. Smith and Christopher Wilkinson. Smith boasts an remarkable resume, with credits including “Twisters,” “The Revenant,” and “The Boys in the Boat.” Wilkinson is best known for his work on the biographical sports drama “Ali.”
Smith and Cliff Roberts are producing “The Dog Stars” alongside Scott’s production company, Scott Free. While the production timeline remains unconfirmed, industry insiders anticipate that Scott will commence work on ”The Dog Stars” following the completion of the Bee Gees biopic. The latter project promises a deep dive into the lives and music of the iconic brothers who captivated audiences with their disco anthems and soulful ballads.
Hollywood’s Casting Carousel: Mescal and Elordi Juggle Blockbuster Roles
The world of film is a whirlwind of casting changes, unexpected departures, and exciting new additions. Two young actors,Paul Mescal and Jacob Elordi,are finding themselves at the center of this ever-spinning carousel,navigating a landscape of high-profile projects and demanding schedules.
Mescal’s Packed Schedule Forces “Dog Stars” Recasting
Rising star Paul Mescal, acclaimed for his performances in “Normal People” and “Aftersun,” was initially slated to lead Ridley Scott’s post-apocalyptic drama “The Dog stars.” Announced in 2024 by 20th century studios, the project seemed like a natural progression for the in-demand actor. Though, fate, and a packed schedule, had other plans.
During a “Gladiator II” panel alongside Christopher Nolan in December 2024, Scott revealed that Mescal’s involvement in the upcoming Beatles biopic might necessitate his departure from “The Dog Stars.”
“Paul is actually stacked up, doing the Beatles next,” Scott explained (via Variety). “So I may have to let him go.” Despite this casting shake-up, Scott and mescal have expressed interest in collaborating again, perhaps on a third installment of the “Gladiator” franchise.
Elordi: From “Euphoria” to “Frankenstein”
Meanwhile, Jacob Elordi, known for his role as Nate Jacobs in the hit HBO series “Euphoria,” is also juggling a multitude of projects. He’s set to return for the third season of “Euphoria” and will star alongside Margot Robbie in Emerald Fennell’s adaptation of “Wuthering heights” for Warner bros. His filmography is expanding to include “On Swift Horses” and the series “The Narrow Road to the Deep north.”
Adding to his growing list of roles, Elordi will take on the iconic role of the monster in Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein.” This casting follows Andrew Garfield’s exit from the project, showcasing Elordi’s rising star power and versatility as an actor.
In the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood, both Mescal and Elordi demonstrate a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive.Their busy schedules are a testament to their talent and the high demand for their skills. It will be exciting to witness their journeys as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of their burgeoning careers.
