Twilight
Hollywood is buzzing with exciting casting rumors, and the latest has fans of Denis Villeneuve’s Dune saga on the edge of their seats. Reports are swirling that Robert Pattinson, the brooding star known for his transformative roles in The Batman and Twilight, might be stepping into the sandy, treacherous world of Arrakis for the third installment, tentatively titled Dune: Messiah. According to industry insiders, Pattinson is being considered for a major antagonistic role, potentially facing off against Timothée Chalamet’s Paul Atreides in this next chapter of the epic sci-fi tale.
The news, first hinted at by Deadline and later expanded upon by sources close to the production, suggests that Pattinson could be slipping into the skin of Scytale, a cunning and shape-shifting villain from Frank Herbert’s 1969 novel Dune Messiah. In the book, Scytale is a master manipulator, a “Face Dancer” of the Bene Tleilax, who orchestrates a sinister plot to destabilize Paul’s reign as Emperor. With his ability to change appearances and his cold, calculating mind, Scytale is a character that demands an actor with range—someone who can blend charm, menace, and unpredictability. Pattinson, with his track record of diving deep into complex roles, seems like a natural fit.
Villeneuve, the visionary director behind Dune and Dune: Part Two, is reportedly putting the final touches on the Messiah script as pre-production gears up for a summer shoot. While no official offer has been extended to Pattinson yet, the interest is said to be strong, and the timing aligns with his packed but carefully juggled schedule. Fresh off his work in Bong Joon-ho’s Mickey 17 and currently filming Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, Pattinson is also slated to return as the Dark Knight in The Batman: Part II later this year. Warner Bros., which distributes both the Dune and Batman franchises, is likely to ensure smooth sailing between these high-profile projects.
The Dune series has already proven itself a magnet for top-tier talent. Alongside Chalamet, the cast boasts names like Zendaya, Florence Pugh, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Josh Brolin, all expected to reprise their roles in Messiah. Set 12 years after the events of the original Dune, the third film will explore Paul’s evolution from reluctant hero to galactic ruler—and the enemies who rise to challenge him. Pattinson’s potential casting as Scytale would add another layer of intrigue, pitting his character against a seasoned Paul in a battle of wits and wills.
Pattinson’s career trajectory makes this rumor all the more tantalizing. Since shedding the sparkly sheen of Edward Cullen, he’s carved out a reputation as a daring, versatile performer. From the gritty chaos of Good Time to the quiet intensity of The Lighthouse, he’s shown a knack for embodying characters who are equal parts captivating and unsettling—qualities that could bring Scytale to life in a way that lingers with audiences. Imagine him slinking through the shadows of Arrakis, his face shifting like sand in the wind, plotting the downfall of an empire. It’s the kind of role that could elevate an already stacked trilogy to new heights.
Legendary Entertainment, the studio behind the films, has stayed tight-lipped about the speculation, and Pattinson’s representatives haven’t commented either. But the mere possibility has set fan forums ablaze, with many pointing to his chemistry with Zendaya—his co-star in the upcoming A24 drama The Drama—as a bonus for the Dune ensemble. If he signs on, Messiah could mark his third collaboration with the actress, who plays Chani.
Robert Pattinson was once only ever known for his Twilight rile of Edward, however everything changed when he took over as The Batman. A lot of people were hesitant at first with his casting to play the “dark knight,” but he shocked many with his stunning performance in The Batman film as Batman himself.
While Dune: Messiah hasn’t locked in an official release date but has drumored to be on December 18, 2026. Villeneuve has made it clear that this third chapter will cap his journey with the franchise, leaving the door open for others to carry Herbert’s universe forward. For now, though, all eyes are on Pattinson and whether he’ll trade Gotham’s rain-soaked streets for the spice-laden deserts of Arrakis. If he does, one thing’s certain: the battle for the throne just got a whole lot more interesting.
