In the original 2000 film Gladiator , Lucius is presented as the son of Lucilla and her late husband Lucius Verus, who died before the events of the movie. Lucius was named after his supposed father, Lucius Verus, who was Marcus Aurelius' co-ruler and Lucilla's husband
. However, Gladiator 2 reveals a significant plot twist: Lucius is actually the biological son of Maximus Decimus Meridius, the protagonist gladiator played by Russell Crowe in the first film. This revelation was hinted at subtly in the original movie through the romantic history between Maximus and Lucilla and Maximus' concern for Lucius before his death. In the sequel, Lucilla discloses to Lucius that Maximus is his real father, reshaping Lucius' identity and his journey
. Thus, while Lucius was believed to be the son of Lucius Verus in the first film, Gladiator 2 confirms that Maximus is his true father.
