Could Robert Pattinson be the next big villain in the Dune universe? Here's everything you need to know about the potential casting and what it means for the franchise.
- April 9, 2025
AceShowbiz - In the world of epic science fiction, few franchises command as much attention as Denis Villeneuve's "Dune" series. The latest buzz suggests A-lister Robert Pattinson is being courted for a major role in the upcoming third installment, "Dune: Messiah".
According to multiple outlets, should Pattinson accept the role, he is expected to play the main baddie to antagonize Timothee Chalamet in the new movie.
Speculation is rife that Pattinson could portray Scytale, a key villain from Frank Herbert's iconic novels. While no official offer has been made, the excitement is palpable among fans and industry insiders alike.
Legendary, the production company behind the film, has yet to comment on Pattinson's potential casting.
Villeneuve, known for attracting top talent, is currently finalizing the script for "Dune: Messiah", with a summer shooting schedule and a release date set for December 18, 2026.
This upcoming installment marks a continuation of the lucrative "Dune" saga, which has seen staggering success at the global box office. The first "Dune", released in 2021, garnered $410 million globally, and its sequel, "Dune: Part Two", racked up a remarkable $714.6 million in 2024.
Returning stars such as Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya Coleman, Florence Pugh, and Jason Momoa will reprise their roles, further elevating the film's profile.
Fresh off his promoting duty for Bong Joon-ho's "Mickey 17", Pattinson, who recently starred alongside Zendaya in A24's "The Drama", is currently busy filming Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey". He will next reprise his role as the caped crusader in a sequel to Warner Bros.'s "The Batman", expected to hit theaters in 2027.
"Dune: Messiah", based on Herbert's 1969 novel, picks up 12 years after the events of "Dune". The story follows Paul Atreides as he rules as Emperor, navigating complex political relationships, including his marriage to Princess Irulan and maintaining a bond with his concubine, Chani.
Villeneuve has stated that this will be his final Dune film before moving on to new projects.
