The next chapter in the *Dune* saga is beginning to take form. Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures are reuniting with director Denis Villeneuve for *Dune 3*, bringing back key cast members such as Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, and Anya Taylor-Joy. Exciting developments continue as reports suggest that Robert Pattinson may be joining the ensemble in a significant role. According to Deadline, Pattinson is currently under consideration for a major character, potentially adding another layer of intrigue to the franchise.
While specific casting details remain under wraps, THR has indicated that Pattinson could portray a villain, aligning him with some of the darker forces at play in the ever-evolving Dune universe. Given the narrative direction following *Dune: Part Two*, we explore the most plausible characters he could embody in the upcoming installment.
Scytale – The Bene Tleilax Mastermind
If *Dune 3* continues its adaptation with *Dune Messiah*, Scytale emerges as one of the most likely roles Pattinson could inhabit. As the central antagonist of the novel, Scytale plays a pivotal role in a conspiracy aimed at toppling Emperor Paul Atreides. With his alliance among the Bene Tleilax, Face Dancers, and the Spacing Guild, Scytale represents a sophisticated and calculated threat—one who operates behind layers of deception and manipulation.
His unique abilities as a Face Dancer allow him to shift identities at will, making him an unpredictable adversary. His collaboration with the Guild Navigator Edric allows them to evade Paul’s prescient visions, setting the stage for a high-stakes power struggle across the galaxy. This role would offer Pattinson a chance to step into morally complex territory, exploring themes of identity, control, and survival within the intricate politics of the Dune universe.
Leto Atreides II – The Future God-Emperor
Given Pattinson’s physical resemblance to Chalamet and his stature as a leading actor, there’s also speculation about whether he could portray Leto Atreides II—Paul’s son and eventual successor. While this may seem unlikely given that Leto II is still unborn in the current storyline, *Dune: Part Two* already demonstrated the creative freedom Villeneuve has by introducing Anya Taylor-Joy as Alia through Paul’s spice-induced visions.
This opens the door for Pattinson to appear as a vision of Leto II, foreshadowing future events or even serving as a symbolic manifestation of Paul’s destiny. Should the film series combine elements from *Dune Messiah* and *Children of Dune*, Pattinson could evolve into the older version of Leto, who later becomes the immortal worm-god ruler of the known universe—a dramatic arc that could carry him through multiple sequels.
Prince Farad’n Corrino – The Reluctant Heir
Another compelling possibility is Prince Farad’n Corrino, grandson of the deposed Emperor Shaddam IV (played by Christopher Walken in *Part Two*). As the last male heir of House Corrino, Farad’n symbolizes the fading legacy of the imperial bloodline. Raised on Salusa Secundus under the harsh tutelage of the Sardaukar, he embodies both discipline and internal conflict.
Unlike many antagonists in the series, Farad’n is not driven by ambition but rather by circumstance. If the filmmakers aim to present a more nuanced kind of villainy, Pattinson could deliver a performance that blurs the lines between enemy and ally. His potential casting as Farad’n could introduce a fresh dynamic in the evolving political landscape of the empire.
A New Fremen Antagonist
With *Dune: Part Two* having reimagined Chani's role, it’s clear that Villeneuve is taking liberties with Herbert’s original texts. That opens up space for entirely new characters to emerge. One intriguing angle could see Pattinson portraying a Fremen leader opposing Paul, aligned with Chani’s faction of dissenters.
This figure could serve as a counterbalance to Paul’s growing messianic influence, representing the moral dilemma of blind devotion versus free will. In essence, Pattinson might become a heroic challenger from Paul’s perspective—echoing the cautionary themes deeply embedded in the *Dune* novels.
Additionally, this character could fuel a dramatic love triangle involving Chani, Paul, and Pattinson’s new Fremen rebel, further complicating Paul’s personal journey while setting up emotional stakes for future installments.
Which Character Do You Think Pattinson Will Play?
As the *Dune* series progresses, so too does the complexity of its characters and the actors who bring them to life. Whether Pattinson steps into the shoes of a classic villain like Scytale, the prophetic Leto II, or a brand-new creation, his involvement promises to elevate the storytelling and deepen the mythos of this iconic sci-fi epic. Stay tuned for more updates as production moves forward.
