‘Those About to Die’ Thrills San Diego Comic-Con With Behind-the-Scenes Look at Its Circus Maximus

“Those About to Die,” Peacock’s buzzy new historical epic, brought some gladiator flare to San Diego Comic-Con with a star-studded panel.

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Executive producer and director Roland Emmerich was flanked by stars Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Moe Hashim, Jojo Macari, Dimitri Leonidas and Gabriella Pession as they provided an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of the drama.

Emmerich, best known for his work on larger-than-life films like “Independence Day” and “The Patriot,” explained why the series was the right move for him in a brand new featurette. “I was always fascinated by the Roman empire, and I always wanted to do something with sports. So this was a dream to tell this story,” he said.

The series is set in the corrupt world of the spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition, exploring a side of ancient Rome never before told and unveiling the dirty business of giving the mob the blood and sport they crave.

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“Game of Thrones” alum Rheon marveled at the highly detailed production design, adding, “We’ve had these amazing practical sets like the underbelly and the Coliseum. They’re the best sets I’ve ever worked on.”

Outside the panel, “Those About to Die” took to the San Diego streets for a real-life chariot race spectacle. The special activation allowed fans to step inside the betting tavern, join one of the coveted factions and experience the adrenaline thrill of the race. Upon entry, guests were divided into the 5 factions from the show and given the chance to whip a pair of reins to power their team’s chariot to victory in a Gaslamp District “Circus Maximus”

All 10 episodes of “Those About to Die” are now streaming on Peacock.

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