Henry Cavill debuts a traditional Scottish look in new Highlander reboot set photos, sporting a blue tartan kilt on horseback.
- May 6, 2026
AceShowbiz - Henry Cavill has been spotted adopting a traditional Scottish appearance in freshly released set photos from the upcoming Highlander reboot. Directed by Chad Stahelski, the film revisits the iconic 1986 movie and stars Cavill as Connor MacLeod, a character originally portrayed by Christopher Lambert.
Currently filming in Scotland, the project has yet to release a trailer, but earlier images revealed Cavill wearing a long leather jacket. The newest photos, shared by BBC Scotland News, showcase Cavill in more authentic Highland dress, including a striking blue tartan kilt and a traditional sporran. Several shots depict him mounted on horseback, participating in what appears to be a torch-lit procession near a castle and crossing a stone bridge.
Also featured in some of these photographs is actor Kevin McKidd, who is seen wearing similar traditional Scottish attire, hinting at the film’s deep connection to its cultural roots. Meanwhile, Karen Gillan, Cavill’s co-star, has shared her own images from the set, confirming that filming is taking place at the historic Eilean Donan Castle. This 13th-century fortress, located in the Scottish Highlands, sits amid a loch and is accessible only via a stone bridge. Gillan’s photos show her posing dramatically with the castle looming in the background, as well as matching director’s chairs for herself and Cavill.
Production for Highlander began in January, after a delay caused by an injury Cavill sustained during intensive training. Like many of Stahelski’s films, actors undergo rigorous preparation to perform much of their own stunt work. It was during this process that Cavill suffered a leg injury, which postponed filming from its original 2025 start date.
Chad Stahelski is best known for directing all four entries in the highly acclaimed John Wick series, celebrated for its inventive and balletic action sequences. Although Highlander does not yet have an official release date, it was recently revealed that Stahelski and Keanu Reeves are developing ideas for John Wick 5, suggesting the director’s continued involvement with the franchise in the future.
The reboot is expected to follow the core story of the original: an immortal Scottish swordsman who battles other immortals to gain a unique power. Alongside Cavill and Gillan, the cast includes notable actors such as Russell Crowe, Dave Bautista, Jeremy Irons, Djimon Hounsou, and Marisa Abela, promising a star-studded ensemble.
Despite the secrecy surrounding many details of the film, the latest set photos imply it will feature scenes set both in contemporary times and the 16th century. Sword fighting was a key element of the 1986 original, but no current behind-the-scenes images or footage have yet revealed the style of combat choreography Stahelski will employ.
For Henry Cavill, this action-packed project is a major career moment. While he earned widespread admiration for his role as Superman, some of his other leading roles in films like The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare (2024), Argylle (2024), and Night Hunter (2018) did not achieve significant impact. The recently released Highlander set images highlight the epic scale Stahelski is aiming for, and if the movie succeeds, it could usher in a new phase for Cavill’s career.
In summary, Highlander is shaping up to be a visually rich and culturally immersive reboot, blending modern and historical elements. With Cavill embracing the iconic Scottish look and a talented supporting cast, fans of the original and new audiences alike have much to anticipate as production continues in the Scottish Highlands.
This article is based on reporting originally published by ScreenRant.