Maximus Decimus Meridius is the protagonist in the 2000 film Gladiator.
Marcus Nonius Macrinus inspired this character. He was a Roman senator and general during the reigns of Emperors Antoninus Pius, Lucius Verus, and Marcus Aurelius. Nonius Macrinus served as legate of Pannonia Inferior (c. 152-c. 154), Pannonia Superior (c. 159-c. 162) and proconsul of the Roman province of Asia (170/171). Unlike Maximus he died a high status, wealthy man. His extravagant tomb was found in 2008.
