There was no character named Knox in the original 1989 action film Road House. The character named Knox is an antagonist specifically introduced in the 2024 remake of Road House.
The Original Road House (1989)
The classic 1989 film, directed by Rowdy Herrington, stars Patrick Swayze as James Dalton, a highly skilled and philosophical "cooler" (bouncer). Dalton is hired to bring order to the Double Deuce, a notoriously rough bar in Jasper, Missouri. The primary characters and antagonists in this iconic film include:
- James Dalton: The stoic and legendary bouncer, portrayed by Patrick Swayze, who embodies a unique blend of martial arts prowess and calm demeanor.
- Brad Wesley: The ruthless local businessman and crime lord, serving as the main antagonist, who extorts local businesses and controls the town through intimidation and violence.
- Doc Elizabeth Clay: A local physician who becomes Dalton's love interest.
- Wade Garrett: Dalton's mentor and close friend, also a renowned cooler, played by Sam Elliott.
The plot focuses on Dalton's efforts to clean up the bar and his eventual confrontation with Wesley and his syndicate. The character of "Knox" does not appear in any capacity in the 1989 Road House.
Knox in the 2024 Road House Remake
The character named Knox is a significant new addition to the 2024 reimagining of Road House. In this modern adaptation, the role of Knox is portrayed by mixed martial arts superstar Conor McGregor. McGregor has publicly confirmed his role as "Knox" in the new "Roadhouse" film, where his character is depicted as a formidable and unhinged enforcer who confronts Jake Gyllenhaal's version of Dalton.
Key distinctions and new elements in the 2024 remake, where Knox plays a pivotal role, include:
- New Dalton Portrayal: Jake Gyllenhaal takes on the lead role of Dalton, reimagined as a former UFC middleweight fighter, bringing a contemporary combat sports background to the character's fighting style.
- New Antagonistic Presence: Knox serves as a major antagonist, a physically imposing and chaotic force sent to deal with Dalton, adding a fresh layer of intense physical confrontations.
- Shifted Setting: The remake moves the action from Missouri to a bar in the vibrant Florida Keys, providing a different backdrop for the brawls and drama.
The introduction of Knox, particularly with a high-profile actor like Conor McGregor, represents a deliberate creative choice for the remake to offer new challenges and dynamics not present in the original film.
| Feature | Original Road House (1989) | 2024 Road House Remake |
|---|---|---|
| Dalton Portrayer | Patrick Swayze | Jake Gyllenhaal |
| Character Knox | Does not exist | Portrayed by Conor McGregor, a new central antagonist |
| Main Antagonist | Brad Wesley | Multiple antagonists, including Knox and Brandt (Billy Magnussen) |
| Primary Setting | Jasper, Missouri (Double Deuce bar) | Florida Keys (The Road House bar) |
| Dalton's Background | Philosophy, martial arts, "cooler" legend | Former UFC middleweight fighter |
