Key Takeaways:
– Russell Crowe turned down the titular role of Wolverine in X-Men leading to Hugh Jackman's Hollywood breakout.
– Crowe expressed no regret over his decision, maintaining complete support for Jackman.
– The initial choice was based on a ‘wolf' theme conflict with Crowe's Gladiator role at the time.
– Crowe recommended Jackman for the part, playing a significant role in his casting.
– Crowe has voiced his unease over the upcoming Gladiator sequel.
The Twists and Turns of Actors' Choices
They say one man's loss is another man's gain. This was certainly true in the Hollywood scenario when Gladiator star, Russell Crowe, rejected the role that catapulted Hugh Jackman into stardom. The role of Wolverine in X-Men may have been a missed opportunity for Crowe, but he harbors no regret, instead celebrating Jackman's phenomenal performance.
Russell Crowe's Reasoning
In Bryan Singer's famous 2000 blockbuster X-Men, Russell Crowe was a leading choice for Wolverine. But Crowe decided to step aside, a decision he disclosed years later. According to an interview he did with The Howard Stern Show in 2019, Crowe cited his conviction that he wouldn't be able to bring the same passion and strength to the role as Jackman. He further asserted that he wouldn't have executed the role with the grace and charm that Jackman brought to the table.
A Connection to the Gladiator Role
Crowe's decision was also influenced by his involvement with the Gladiator movie at the time. Constrained by his commitment to the Gladiator film, Crowe avoided taking a role that had similar wolf themes, as he did not want to be typecast. Much of this anticipated wolf narrative in Gladiator, however, eventually didn't make the final cut. Interestingly, despite rejecting the role, it was Crowe who ultimately suggested Hugh Jackman as a suitable candidate.
The Jackman Connection
Hugh Jackman owes a fair share of his successful Hollywood career to his predecessor. Back in a 2012 interview, Jackman acknowledged that he was grateful to Crowe for recommending him, not only for the career-defining role in X-Men but also for the film Australia alongside Nicole Kidman.
Gladiator Sequel Sparks Controversy
Meanwhile, the much-anticipated Gladiator sequel is raising eyebrows, particularly that of Crowe. The sequel, Gladiator II, is set after the events of the original film and introduces Normal People star, Paul Mescal, as Lucius Verus, the protagonist. Crowe, however, has expressed concern over certain aspects of the film that he believes do not align with the original character's moral journey.
Jealousy and Envy of the Past
Crowe's discomfort with the Gladiator sequel might stem from a nostalgic twinge, as the original film marked a significant point in his career, opening many doors for him. Despite his mixed feelings, Crowe continues to thrive with four movies currently in post-production.
Final Thoughts
While the decision to turn down the role of Wolverine may have been a pivotal moment for Crowe, it opened up an extraordinary opportunity for Jackman. And for Jackman, it was a career-launching opportunity. In the world of films, as in life, one door's closure can indeed be another's long-awaited opening. Who knows, perhaps these actors' paths will cross again in future Hollywood history.
For fans wishing to reminisce or experience the groundbreaking films for the first time, X-Men (2000) is available for streaming on Disney+. As for the Gladiator sequel, audiences can look forward to its theatrical release on November 22.
