Russell Crowe, the renowned actor known for his roles in movies like "Gladiator" and "A Beautiful Mind," recently made an appearance on the popular talk show, The Jonathan Ross Show. During the interview, Crowe spoke candidly about fame, his passion for sports, and his latest project as a director.
The interview started with Jonathan Ross introducing Crowe to roaring applause from the audience, setting a lively tone for the conversation. Crowe shared his reasons for being in the UK, explaining that he had invested in his childhood rugby league team, the South Sydney Rabbitohs, and had successfully transformed the team from perennial losers to champions. He expressed his impatience to bring success to Leeds United, a club he has followed since childhood.
The conversation then shifted to Crowe's breakthrough performance in the movie "Gladiator." Crowe revealed that he realized the massive impact of the film when he walked out of his hotel in Rome and found the streets filled with fans. This heightened level of fame was both thrilling and intimidating for him.
Despite being perceived as a tough guy in the film industry, Crowe shared that he is a sensitive and poetic individual. He revealed that he writes songs and poetry, breaking the stereotype of being just a "rough guy" on screen.
The discussion also touched on the physical toll that intense roles take on Crowe's body. He candidly spoke about his numerous injuries, including no cartilage in his toes, grade four tears in both Achilles, shin splints, bone marrow edema, a degenerating hip, and a bad lower back. As he ages, he becomes more cautious about the physical risks involved in his roles.
The conversation then transitioned to Crowe's latest project, "The Water Diviner," in which he not only stars but also directs. The film follows the story of a man named Joshua Connor, played by Crowe, who travels from Australia to Turkey in search of his sons' remains after they were killed in war. Crowe emphasized that the film is not depressing but rather aims to highlight the human experience amidst tragedy.
Crowe shared a heartwarming story about his sons watching the film and their realization of the realities of war. He expressed pride in teaching them that war is not glamorous and emphasized his respect for the sacrifices made by soldiers.
Overall, Crowe's interview on The Jonathan Ross Show provided a captivating glimpse into his career, personal life, and passion for filmmaking. As he continues to evolve as an actor and director, audiences can look forward to experiencing his talent both on and off the screen.