Gal Gadot, the well-known Israeli actress who played Wonder Woman, is scheduled to play Queen Cleopatra in an upcoming movie slated for release in cinemas in 2025. The recent release of a new theatrical poster has sparked renewed interest in the film, which Gadot hopes will alter the historical figure’s narrative. Although Elizabeth Taylor famously portrayed Cleopatra in the 1963 film of the same name, some critics have expressed dissatisfaction with Gadot’s casting, citing her Israeli ancestry as a point of contention.
In a recent interview, Gal Gadot expressed her excitement about playing the role of Cleopatra in an upcoming movie. She shared that growing up, she had heard many stories about Cleopatra, who she believes is a true female leader. Gadot also expressed her desire to showcase the other aspects of Cleopatra’s life beyond her alleged affairs with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, which have been the focus of films in the past.
Gadot’s casting has already received some criticism online, with some commentators questioning the decision to cast an Israeli actress as the Macedonian Greek Cleopatra. However, in a previous interview with BBC, Gadot defended her casting, stating that they were looking for a Macedonian actress, but none were available. She also emphasized her admiration for Cleopatra’s legacy and wanted to honor the historic icon through her portrayal.
As one of the most famous figures of antiquity, Cleopatra VII Philopator ruled over ancient Egypt from 51 to 30 BC. Her fate was tied to the fortunes of the Ptolemaic Kingdom, of which she was the last ruler. A skilled diplomat and strategist, Cleopatra sought to maintain Egypt’s independence while navigating the Roman Republic’s turbulent political landscape. Her relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony were instrumental in securing her position and the interests of Egypt. However, after the Battle of Actium, Egypt fell under Roman rule, marking the end of her reign and the Ptolemaic dynasty’s demise.