Russell Crowe explains why he got embarrassed watching ‘Gladiator’ in the Colosseum in Rome

Russell Crowe had already gained considerable international recognition before starring in “Gladiator” in 2000, although the Ridley Scott-directed movie catapulted the New Zealand-born Australian actor to superstardom and earned him his only Best Actor Academy Award to date.

‘Gladiator’ and Crowe: a match made in movie history

If 100 people were asked to name the film they most associate with Crowe, “Gladiator” would likely win every time. And if they were given the word “Gladiator” in a game of word association, “Russell Crowe” would almost certainly be their response.

Yet the man himself revealed to Vanity Fair that he feels uneasy about the movie’s other star performers often being overlooked in his favor.

Crowe on watching ‘Gladiator’ at the Colosseum

“The last time I saw ‘Gladiator,’ I actually watched it in the Colosseum in Rome,” Crowe said. “I actually got a little bit embarrassed that I received so much attention for that film.

“It’s an incredible ensemble cast, with beautiful performers from end to end. Not only Joaquin (Phoenix), but Connie Nielsen, Richard Harris, Derek Jacobi, Tomas Arana, Djimon Hounsou... I mean, come on, man, it’s just beautiful stuff.”

How ‘Gladiator’ changed Crowe’s life

Crowe was 36 when “Gladiator” was released and is well aware of the impact the film had on his career, as well as on movie fans all around the world.

“I wish that every young actor could have something like a ‘Gladiator’ in their career,” he said. “We made that film in 1999, and I’ll bet you money somewhere in the world tonight that film is playing on primetime television. It has the longest legs, and people not just connect to it, but they love it with a passion.”

Russell Crowe’s next chapter

Now 61, Crowe recently unveiled a new look while promoting his upcoming movie “Nuremberg,” in which he portrays Hermann Goering, the only top Nazi leader tried for war crimes after World War II. The actor said he shed 60 pounds in a yearlong effort to improve his health and approach the next stage of his career with renewed energy.

There’s plenty of life left in the “Gladiator” yet.

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