The Dune universe may be getting even more star-studded. Director Denis Villeneuve is reportedly eyeing Robert Pattinson for a major role in Dune 3, the highly anticipated third installment of the epic sci-fi saga.
Talks Underway, But No Official Offer Yet
As Villeneuve finalizes the script ahead of a planned summer shoot, sources reveal that Robert Pattinson is being considered for a role in the film. While no official offer has been made, the buzz surrounding Pattinson’s potential involvement is strong. Legendary, the studio behind the franchise, has declined to comment on the casting rumors.
Pattinson would join returning stars Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, along with an ensemble that includes Florence Pugh, Anya Taylor-Joy, Javier Bardem, Charlotte Rampling, and more. Villeneuve’s Dune films have a reputation for attracting A-list talent, and Pattinson’s addition would only elevate the franchise’s prestige.
Pattinson Eyed for the Role of Scytale
Although the studio has remained silent, industry speculation suggests that Pattinson is being considered for the role of Scytale, a shape-shifting Face Dancer and key antagonist in Frank Herbert’s Dune Messiah novel. If cast, Pattinson would portray a character capable of mimicry and deception—traits that could lead to a thrilling face-off with Chalamet’s Paul Atreides.
Scytale is a central figure in Dune Messiah, which is set twelve years after the events of Dune: Part Two. The story follows Paul as he grapples with the consequences of his rise to power and attempts to bring peace to a galaxy fractured by war and religious fanaticism.
Production and Release Timeline
Dune: Messiah is slated for a December 2026 release, with production expected to kick off in summer 2025. The film is being developed following the immense success of the first two Dune movies, which earned a combined $1.12 billion at the global box office and received 15 Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture nods for both.
Villeneuve’s vision for Dune has already reshaped the modern sci-fi genre, and the next chapter promises to be just as ambitious.
Pattinson’s Busy Slate of Projects
Robert Pattinson is currently one of the busiest actors in Hollywood. He recently co-starred with Zendaya in the A24 romantic dramedy The Drama, and he is presently filming Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of The Odyssey, where he stars alongside Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, and Charlize Theron.
Pattinson also leads the cast of Die, My Love, a dark comedy thriller with Jennifer Lawrence, and will appear in the crime drama Primetime, which features Phoebe Bridgers. Not to mention his ongoing role as Batman in Warner Bros.’ DC Universe, with The Batman sequel scheduled for release in 2027.
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