Colbert and Mescal engaged in an entertaining conversation about the grandeur of the epic film, directed by Ridley Scott. Mescal expressed his awe at the scale of the production, particularly the meticulously crafted sets, including a one-to-one scale Coliseum. He humorously remarked that the Coliseum alone cost more than all the independent films he had previously been a part of combined.
Transitioning from indie projects to a major blockbuster, Mescal opened up about his nerves. Colbert wondered if Ridley Scott offered any words of encouragement. Mescal revealed that while he experienced nerves leading up to the filming, Scott didn’t have time for them. On the first day, with a cigar in hand, Scott greeted Mescal, who admitted to feeling somewhat nervous. Scott playfully slapped him on the back, asserting that nerves were of no use, prompting the cameras to start rolling.
Colbert shifted the conversation to Mescal’s physical transformation for the role of a gladiator. Acknowledging Mescal’s already fit physique, Colbert jokingly asked if he had put in a significant amount of training. Mescal explained that he had worked with a trainer named Tim Blakeley for two to three months leading up to the film. On the training process, Mescal shared an amusing anecdote. Blakeley had come to his hotel room, and after exchanging pleasantries, matter-of-factly requested that Mescal strip down to his underwear. This unconventional approach surprised Mescal, but he trusted his trainer’s expertise. Blakeley meticulously assessed Mescal’s physique, providing specific goals for different body parts, and prescribed a diet rich in chicken to assist with muscle growth.
The interview concluded with Colbert praising Mescal’s dedication to his role and expressing excitement about his future endeavors. Mescal’s appearance on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” was not just informative but also filled with humor and charm, making it a delightful segment for fans and viewers. As Mescal continues to rise in the entertainment industry, his appearance on the show affirmed his place among the elite celebrities of both the chat show and talk show genres.
