Karen Gillan Joins Sword-Wielding Live-Action Reboot of Highlander

The Guardians of the Galaxy and Doctor Who alum is set to play Heather, the immortal’s one true love, in Chad Stahelski’s star-studded Amazon MGM remake featuring Henry Cavill, Russell Crowe, Dave Bautista, and Marisa Abela.

Amazon MGM’s action-fantasy reboot of the 1986 cult classic Highlander has added another marquee name to its impressive ensemble: Karen Gillan. The Doctor Who and Guardians of the Galaxy star will portray Heather, the mortal wife and enduring love of Henry Cavill’s Connor MacLeod.

Here’s what we know so far:

Cast & Characters:

Henry Cavill takes on the iconic role of Connor MacLeod.

Russell Crowe is set to play Ramirez, MacLeod’s wise mentor — a role originally brought to life by Sean Connery.

Dave Bautista will inhabit the villainous immortal known as The Kurgan.

Marisa Abela joins in a leading role, though details about her character are still under wraps.

Production Details:

The film is directed by Chad Stahelski, best known for the John Wick franchise, under Amazon MGM’s United Artists banner.

The script is penned by Michael Finch, with producers including Scott Stuber, Nick Nesbitt, Neal H. Moritz, Stahelski’s 87Eleven Entertainment, Josh Davis, and Louise Rosner.

Principal photography is scheduled to begin at the end of September 2025.

While no official release date has been announced, industry chatter suggests a potential 2027 or 2028 theatrical debut.

About the Original:
Released in 1986, the original Highlander starred Christopher Lambert as Connor MacLeod, a Scottish warrior who discovers he is immortal. Guided by Ramirez (Sean Connery), he battles other immortals across centuries, culminating in the legendary “there can be only one” showdown.

With Gillan joining this powerhouse cast, the Highlander reboot is shaping up to be a high-stakes, sword-clashing spectacle that blends myth, fantasy, and modern cinematic flair.