EXCLUSIVE: WWE superstar Drew McIntyre has officially joined the cast of Highlander, the film from Amazon MGM Studios’ United Artists being directed by Chad Stahelski. McIntyre will star opposite Henry Cavill as his character MacLeod’s brother Angus MacLeod.
In addition to Cavill and McIntyre, the reboot stars the previously announced Russell Crowe, Marisa Abela, Karen Gillan, Djimon Hounsou, Max Zhang and Dave Bautista.
Michael Finch penned the screenplay based on the original 1986 film of the same name, which starred Christopher Lambert as Connor MacLeod. It portrayed the climax of an ancient battle between immortal warriors, unfolding through interwoven past and present-day storylines. Russell Mulcahy directed the film, produced by Peter S. Davis and William N. Panzer.
Since its release, the feature has inspired multiple sequels and a popular TV series of the same name that premiered in 1992 starring Adrian Paul.
The new project was in pre-production earlier this month before everything was halted when Cavill was injured during training. Production is expected to begin in early 2026.
UA’s Scott Stuber and Nick Nesbitt will produce the Highlander reboot alongside Neal H. Moritz; 87Eleven Entertainment, Stahelski’s production banner; Josh Davis of Davis Panzer Productions; and Louise Rosner. UA secured full rights to the 1986 original, with the potential to also develop a new series. Lionsgate developed the film.
McIntyre is a Scottish professional wrestler who is a two-time WWE champion and a 2020 Royal Rumble winner. Highlander reunites him with Stahelski’s 87Eleven stunt and action team and with retired wrestler Bautista, who previously worked with McIntyre on his feature debut in Lionsgate’s The Killer’s Game. McIntyre is represented by Paradigm and Ziffren Brittenham.