“Highlander” Reboot: Henry Cavill Shares PT Photos as Drew McIntyre & Jeremy Irons Join Cast

There can be only one… reboot, apparently. And after languishing in development purgatory, for what feels like almost an eternity, the “Highlander” remake is not only happening but has also assembled a cast that’s almost as immortal as its characters. Get ready, because this gig is to be a cinematic event you won’t want to lose your head over. (Ha!)

Chad Stahelski Takes Control of “Highlander”

For years, the promise of a new “Highlander” has been a Hollywood whisper, a project passed around more than a bottle of fine Scotch. But now, with John Wick mastermind Chad Stahelski at the helm, the battle for “The Prize” is finally getting a modern, high-octane facelift. And let’s be real, if anyone knows how to film stylish, bone-crunching sword fights, it’s the guy who turned Keanu Reeves into a gun-fu legend.

Who’s Wielding the Sword in the “Highlander” Reboot?

The cast for this project is nothing short of epic. Leading the charge is none other than Henry Cavill, stepping into the iconic kilt of Connor MacLeod. After hanging up his Superman cape and the Geralt of Rivia wig, Cavill is no stranger to epic franchises, and seeing him swing a claymore is something we didn’t know we needed so badly. He even endured a nasty leg injury during training, proving his commitment to the role. That’s dedication.

But an immortal hero is only as good as his allies and enemies. Russell Crowe is taking on the role of Ramirez, MacLeod’s flamboyant and wise mentor, a part made legendary by the one and only Sean Connery. No pressure, Rusty. Joining them is a murderer’s row of talent:

• Dave Bautista as the monstrous Kurgan, the ultimate baddie. The role was originated by Clancy Brown in the initial “Highlander”
• Jeremy Irons as a new villain leading “The Watchers,” a secret order of mortals who think immortals are a menace.
• Karen Gillan as Heather, Connor’s beloved wife.
• Djimon Hounsou as the African immortal Sunda Kastagir.
• WWE superstar Drew McIntyre as Connor’s brother, Angus MacLeod.

This lineup is stacked. It feels less like a movie cast and more like an assembly of pop culture titans ready for an all-out war.

What’s New with the “Highlander” Story?

Don’t expect a carbon copy of the 1986 classic. Stahelski isn’t just remaking the movie; he’s expanding the universe. While the core concept of immortals battling through all the ages remains, this reboot is changing the timeline. Instead of starting in the 1500s Scottish Highlands, the story will be altered to unfold in present-day New York and Hong Kong, weaving in flashbacks to tell the epic tale.

Stahelski has talked about creating an enticing mythology that will blend the elements from the original film, the beloved Adrian Paul-led TV series, and some new ideas. The introduction of “The Watchers,” a concept borrowed from the ’90s TV show, adds a fascinating and creative new layer. Now, the immortals aren’t just fighting each other; they’re also being hunted by a clandestine group of humans who see them as a threat. It adds a whole new level of paranoia and conflict to “The Game.”

Why This “Highlander” Reboot Could Actually Be Great

Honestly, reboots can be a risky business. For every success story, there are a dozen disasters that tarnish the original’s legacy. But this “Highlander” feels different. With Chad Stahelski’s visionary action direction, a script from Michael Finch, and a cast this ridiculously perfect, the stars are definitely aligning for something special. The move from Lionsgate to Amazon MGM’s United Artists also signals a major studio commitment.

This project isn’t just about the dollars; it’s a passion project. It’s also a chance to reintroduce a beloved, albeit quirky, franchise to a new generation while honoring what made the original so great. (Queen soundtrack anyone?) We’re talking epic sword fights, a sweeping love story, and that timeless question: what does it truly mean to live forever?

Production is slated to kick off in early 2026, so we still have a bit of a wait. But for the first time in a very long time, it feels like the “Highlander” reboot is not just a possibility, but a certainty. And we – with heart, faith, and steel – will be here for the upcoming Gathering. Maybe there can be more than one!