[i]’I wish them the best,’ Butler tells MTV News of returning for ‘300: Battle of Artemisia.'[/i]
The last time we checked in on the latest developments with the “300” sequel, Warner Bros. ended the “is this movie ever happening?” debate by finally announcing that “300: Battle of Artemisia” will hit theaters on August 2, 2013.
That leaves really only one lingering question: What about Gerard Butler? Since the actor was pretty much at the center of the original film in the role of King Leonidas, it’s only right to wonder where he might fit in a sequel. Butler has always maintained that he’d be interested in a “300” follow-up — if the timing and the script were right.
But unfortunately, MTV News can now confirm that Butler will not be making an appearance as Leonidas, after all.
“Oh, yeah, I’m not doing it,” Butler told us when we caught up with him for early scoop on his surfing drama “Chasing Mavericks” and possible involvement in “Battle for Artemisia.”
“They’re filming [the ‘300’ sequel] right now. I wish them the best, but it didn’t [work out]. It wasn’t really my thing.”
“Battle for Artemisia” is based on Frank Miller’s graphic novel “Xerxes” and will revolve around the Persian leader’s (Rodrigo Santoro) struggle to become a god, as well as his battles with Greek warlord Themistocles (Sullivan Stapleton) and Artemesia (Eva Green), all of whom are based on actual historical figures. We’re partial to Green’s ballsy and badass Artemesia because she took over ruling duties for her husband after his death and went on to command an entire armada.
In the meantime, fill your Gerard Butler action-movie void by checking him out hanging 10 in “Chasing Mavericks,” opening October 26.