Explaining Russell Crowe

Actor Chalks Up Phone-Throwing Incident To Temper, Believes Tendency Is Vital To His Health

(CBS)  This segment was originally broadcast on Nov. 5, 2006. It was updated on June 28, 2007.

If Russell Crowe is not the best movie actor working today, he is certainly their equal. He already has one Academy Award for best actor in "Gladiator," and has been nominated two other times for "A Beautiful Mind" and "The Insider." Besides being intelligent, well read and incredibly talented, the 42-year-old Australian can also be volatile, combative, even a bit menacing.

So it was with some trepidation that Steve Kroft sat down with Crowe to discuss his life, his career and his reputation as one of Hollywood’s bad boys. He doesn’t do television interviews that often and when he does he speaks his mind, even if it gets him in trouble.

---

Doing TV interviews is not one of Russell Crowe's favorite things to do. He says it's "very artificial."

"I can sit here and have a conversation with you and whatever mood it is that you want it to be, it's what it's gonna be, you know? Regardless of what my answers are. And of course, we all know the power of editing. Because we have both got careers based on, probably, the power of editing," Crowe explains.

"You can control the mood of the interview as much as I can," Kroft points out.

"Do ya want to sell me some shoes, now?" Crowe replies.

"You've really established yourself as a great actor. I mean, it's been, whether we're talkin' about Academy Awards, or Academy Award nominations. The range of the roles that you’ve played…," Kroft continues.

"Can I just say 'thank you' and we finish the interview?" Crowe asks Kroft. "'Cause it's going really well, so far."

Asked what makes him such a great actor, Crowe says, "You know, if I thought I was any good at it, I probably wouldn't put as much effort as I do into it, you know?"

"That effort's what sets you apart, isn't it? I mean that effort is what makes you successful," Kroft asks.

"I think so," Crowe agrees. "Yeah, or that's the way I see it, anyway. I know, without that effort, I wouldn't be."

He built his career brick-by-brick with memorable performances and was already a major movie star in Australia, when he burst upon the Hollywood scene nearly a decade ago in "L.A. Confidential."

Whether he is playing a middle-aged whistleblower in "The Insider," a schizophrenic genius in "A Beautiful Mind," or a gladiator, he always goes the extra mile, even if it involves bruises and fractures doing his own stunts, or improvising dialogue for his character Maximus with director Ridley Scott. They only had 21 pages of the "Gladiator" script when they began shooting.

"I wanted to come up with this sort of two-word thing that Max would say to people, when they left their company, you know. Or when he greeted them. And I came up with "fortes honore," alright," Crowe recalls. "And Ridley's standing there and like, 'Oh, fortes honore, what the f--- does that mean?' And I said, that means 'strength and honor.' And he goes, 'Say that. Right, rolling!'"

The role brought him an Oscar, along with a level of celebrity and public scrutiny that he is uncomfortable with. He is a perfectionist who demands a lot of himself and everyone around him. He’s still upset that his last film underperformed at the box office and blames the studio for the way it was promoted. He calls it his favorite role and wanted an Academy Award nomination and more people to see it.

"Do you feel the constant need for approval? Do you get nervous if people aren't showering you with honors?" Kroft asks.

"Not with honors, no. Do I feel in a odd way that there should be some kind of understanding between me and an audience now that if I've done the movie, regardless of the subject matter, you should turn up 'cause it's gonna be a good film? I know that's kind of wacky to say that," Crowe says. "But, yeah, I do feel that. I do feel after, you know, 'L.A. Confidential,' 'The Insider,' 'Gladiator,' 'Beautiful Mind,' 'Master and Commander,' 'Cinderella Man,' there should be some understanding between me and the audience that, you know, if I've done it. One, I've put a lot of effort into it. And two, there's something about it that'll touch your heart."

But the spontaneity that serves him so well in front of the camera frequently gets him in trouble away from it. He’s known for making brash comments and boorish behavior. And he’s the first one to admit that he has neither the discipline nor the desire to correct it.

"I'm not Machiavellian. I don't play chess with my life, ya know. I respond in the moment which is what makes me a good actor. It makes me sometimes a good interview subject. But it also makes me a very easy target," he explains.

[lostein]

I sure hope that the 60 Minutes piece reports that the "victim" was fired from the hotel. I guess they didn't think he was so great, either.

[veramooloo]

Russell has so much to talk about. He just fulfilled a life long dream of owning a "footy" team. Has a new addition to his family...Has 3 movies in the can...Has toured with his new band.
..Has recently suffered the tragic loss af a good friend in Steve Irwin. Why are we still talking about what happened in June 2005. It was settled over a year ago. I thought this was a news program, not an old news program ? Damnit, where's Andy Rooney when you need him ?

[drsweener]

Crowe is a megalomaniac. Brilliant actor, but what a tool.

[hequacksmeup]

By his own admission, Crowe followed the phone-throwing with a karate stance and a grand bow. That hardly sounds like an attempt at an apology to me.

In his appearance on David Letterman, Crowe again failed to apologize to his victim, Mr Estrada, choosing only to apologize to his own wife and the victim's family for causing them distress.

In several published interviews, as recently as 4 months ago, Crowe continued to blame Mr Estrada for causing this incident by using the term "whatever" in response to Crowe's agitation.

The American legal system worked exactly as it was meant to work; it provided protection from and punishment to a man who physically attacked/asaulted another man. No misuse there at all.

Additionally, the arrest, fine, and period of probationary status serve as a deterrent to future assaults by the always volatile Russell Crowe. Another example of how the system serves the people.

It's painfully obvious to those who have followed Mr Crowe's assault on Mr Estrada, that the only reason Crowe feels sorry is because he was arrested and his film career was threatened. And the only reason he is appearing on 60 Minutes admitting to regret is because he needs to clean up his image while promoting his latest film. I believe the technical term for this sort of appearance is "spin".

To the person who posted the nonesense about Mr Estrada's subsequent dismissal, does poor job performance warrant violent physical abuse? Not in America dear.

[exusmcsgt]

Crowe appears as emotionally developed as a kindergardner on a playground.....

[fuzziwuzzi1]

Do Russell Crowe and Tom Cruise have to wonder why they have fallen out of the hearts of the movie going public ? Boys , take a page from the girls like Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman and Angelina Jolie - conduct you life with dignity, class and mouth shut.

Russell should stop acting like a prat and start acting like an adult. Just goes to show you , Money cannot buy you class or intelligence.

Steve Kroft still alive, he didn't suffocate by the swirling vortex winds of Russell Crowe's presence sucking the air out of the room ?

Oh yeah Russell luv,

Shut-Up , Lose 30 lbs , Get Back to Work and ACT!

[anomalous4--2008]

I'm with fuzziwuzzi1. But Crowe doesn't need to look as far as the "girls" for a good role model.

I nominate Michael J. Fox.

By now almost everyone knows that Fox suffers from an illness that's been slowly turning his body into a living hell for 20 years. For his public advocacy of embryonic stem-cell research and his support for political candidates who advocate it, he's suffered some of the most mean-spirited public ridicule imaginable in recent weeks from at least one well-known, ignorant, arrogant fool.

His response? It can be summarized in one word:

Grace.

Rather than lashing out at his detractor, Fox has responded calmly, not only with the facts about the issue, but also with candidness and without visible bitterness against either his detractor or his illness.

Rather than yielding to self-pity, he's worked tirelessly to put a public face on a horrifying disease and thereby educate others about it, and has devoted millions of dollars to the search for a cure for his devastating illness.

As he struggles through his ordeal, his courage, faith, and determination have never faltered.

While his illness will eventually kill him, I believe, as I'm sure he does, that it will never truly defeat him.

Now that's a role model.

[anomalous4--2008]

I'm with fuzziwuzzi1. But Crowe doesn't need to look as far as the "girls" for a good role model.

I nominate Michael J. Fox.

By now almost everyone knows that Fox suffers from an illness that's been slowly turning his body into a living hell for 20 years. For his public advocacy of embryonic stem-cell research and his support for political candidates who advocate it, he's suffered some of the most mean-spirited public ridicule imaginable in recent weeks from at least one well-known, ignorant, arrogant fool.

His response? It can be summarized in one word:

Grace.

Rather than lashing out at his detractor, Fox has responded calmly, not only with the facts about the issue, but also with candidness and without visible bitterness against either his detractor or his illness.

Rather than yielding to self-pity, he's worked tirelessly to put a public face on a horrifying disease and thereby educate others about it, and has devoted millions of dollars to the search for a cure for his devastating illness.

As he struggles through his ordeal, his courage, faith, and determination have never faltered.

While his illness will eventually kill him, I believe, as I'm sure he does, that it will never truly defeat him.

Now that's a role model.

[anomalous4--2008]

I'm with fuzziwuzzi1. But Russell Crowe doesn't need to look as far as the "girls" for a good role model.

I nominate Michael J. Fox.

By now almost everyone knows that Fox suffers from an illness that's been slowly turning his body into a living hell for 20 years. For his public advocacy of embryonic stem-cell research and his support for political candidates who advocate it, he's suffered some of the most mean-spirited public ridicule imaginable in recent weeks from at least one well-known, ignorant, arrogant fool.

His response? It can be summarized in one word:

Grace.

Rather than lashing out at his detractor, Fox has responded calmly, not only with the facts about the issue, but also with candidness and without visible bitterness against either his detractor or his illness.

Rather than yielding to self-pity, he's worked tirelessly to put a public face on a horrifying disease and thereby educate others about it, and has devoted millions of dollars to the search for a cure for his devastating illness.

As he struggles through his ordeal, his courage, faith, and determination have never faltered.

While his illness will eventually kill him, I believe, as I'm sure he does, that it will never truly defeat him.

Now that's a role model.

[anomalous4--2008]

My sincere apologies to everyone for my last post hitting three times. I made the standard mistake - I didn't think it went through the first time, etc.

[swmsgoodman]

Thank GOD for Russell Crowe! Thank GOD for Aussies! Thank GOD for being a real man and willing to tell someone exactly what he thinks. And to He!! with the mamby-pamby liberal tripe and political correctness that Mr. Crowe instinctively and intuitively condemns.

I am a middle school teacher. I get mad. I have jacked some little b*stard up against the wall and condemn myself for not taking the little sucker out the proverbial woodshed.

The best comment that Crowe said was that: what would result in litigation in this country would end with a hand shake in Australia.

Go Russ!

[wicked7771]

This guy says our justice system is flawed, yet he takes a phone and whips it at a guy because he got cut off from his wife? What is wrong with this picture? This guy has a temper, yet it is the fault of our system.

Talk about a guy that is so above himself!

No, Mr. Crowe, I will never buy your movies, nor will i ever pay a dime to see you at the theater. Paying for your movies is saying that I approve of your childish behavior. Get a life, Mr. Crowe....get a life!

[TAMMYSUE89]

I am sorry but, I have to disagree with fuzz. I think Russell is one of the most intelligent and talented actors out there. Every one of his movies has touched my heart and moved me beyond belief. I think you need to find some intelligence of your own. I am sure you have had a bad day every now and then. But, you did not have the press there to report it. So, think about that.

[msnashal]

I HAVE TO AGREE WITH RUSSEL'S VIEWPOINT ON TODAYS SOCIETY. There was so much more effort towards integrity knowing a consequence would follow for disrespective actions. But in todays society we have to tip toe our true thoughts while the damaging and disrespectful actions are camoflaged behind graceful moves = chess game. Check Mate. Hold true to your character for a brave man dies but once, yet a coward dies daily. Keep up with the great films - todays best.

[cmurf100]

The American public seems to enjoy thinking and speaking ill of Russell Crowe, and I just can't figure that out. I think his willingness to actaully express anger when he feels it, to speak his mind, to demand excellence, and to give respect only to those who've shown they are worthy of respect is refreshing. I can't imagine him ever doing or saying anything just to create an image that isn't real, which is unheard of today. I don't think I've ever read anything negative about him when the source is someone who actually knows him. The fact that the women in his life have never complained speaks volumes. He's been my favorite for years and I will continue to go to his films just because he's in them.

[notmyname1]

I agree with the person who said this is old news. Give Mr. Crowe credit for his wonderful acting. As for being upset because the desk clerk said "Whatever" anyone reading this would have been irritated by such a rude desk clerk. While I also agree poor job performance does not warrant physical abuse, in this country we tend to be rude in that way. I work woth the public every day as a nurse and have been spit on, cussed at, bitten, hit, kicked, and even received stitches for my injuries. No one was given a fine or had reporters fighting to get the scoop for any of it and I had no recourse but to accept all of he rudeness dished out and smile and say thank you. I don't condone Russell Crowe's actions, but I also don't condone all the court action because of the rudeness we encounter. That's why the courts can't get to the lawsuits that really shoud be there. The news media need to get over theselves. Even Steve Croft immediately put Mr. Crowe on the defensive and hoped to have him loose his temper--gee what a piece that would have been for 60 Minutes!

[c_robertson]

I once waws like Mr Crowe. I grew up. We would all like to be this way. Get angry and do what we wan't. Bash people when they get in our face or curse us. I know what he is saying and agree with a lot, but a tantrum is just that. You can say it is harmless. It is called being spoiled.

[groovy1260]

Russell Crowe! How proud of you I am. I totally understand the cultural differences you experience as I am a little Aussie girl living in the US. Thank you for staying true to your core values and not bending into a product of the media. I hold you in highest regard for also being a man...in what I truly beleive to be its highest form. Caring for your family, openly and honestly speaking your mind and most importantly not being afraid that someone will not approve of you because of it. Do you have a brother? I would marry him and move home in a monute!!!

[cateaber]

Russell Crowe is one of the most talented actors to date. We all have tempers. Who out there hasn't been pushed to the 'limit' a time or two and did something or said something they wish they could take back? Leave the guy alone,and stop 'dogging' those who do bring us such quality entertainment. The media punishes these talented people too often. Get over yourselves, Media! Start reporting news and stop creating it. By the way, where is the recipient of the telephone? Is he the 'employee of the year'yet? Russell, keep up the great performances. I have enjoyed every one. Especially, Cinderella Man. It was awesome.

[falcon1018]

He proved to me what is, nothing but a two bit punk. What a coward, he is to hit sombody with a phone. they should have locked him up for a few days, and he would see just what a punk he is. Stay down under where you belong. I know I'll never spend a dime to see any movies with him again!

[md12342]

I think this interview unfairly highlighted the gossip and misconceptions about Russell Crowe. I have personally met him a number of times and he was always respectful, friendly and a very sincere person to a fan that he didn't need to even awknowledge. If only the press would look at the positive side of a person or event......too much unnessesary negativity over nothing. We should just appreciate the fact that we enjoy watching the movies or listening to the music he creates and leave his personal life alone.

[fuzziwuzzi1]

Violence is not the answer. It is never the answer. Any folks here thinking hitting another person is justified is just wrong nad you need to go back to Sunday School. Russell has a habit of getting into trouble whether it is "perceived" or "real" - like Mercergate, Zuma-loo, Hemmingways, on-set dustup in TO, Stripergate in Germany , the Irish pubcrawl. Your publics perception is what ebbs and flows your career.

I hope Russell finds the peace he deserves and the respect he craves. Good Luck !

[dv01]

I'm a domestic violence therapist. i work primarily with men who have been entered in to the criminal justice system after an incident of "finding their temper". The one thing that all of them complain about is being misunderstood for expressing their anger in ways that violate the rights of other people. They are labeled as "angry", "batterer", "hot tempered", "dangerous", "volitile", "etc". The one thing I wish all people could understand is that these men have made choices that they are not proud of, but those choices are not a definition of the person. We've all made some choices in our time that we would like to forget: a bad hair cut, a harsh word to someone we love, throwing a phone.... Russell Crowe is no different. leave the poor man alone.

[auntkitty38-2009]

I have two words for Mr. Crowe, ANGER MANAGEMENT. A handshake and an apology, who is he kidding? I doubt he would be have the ability to behave himself in such a subdued manner if the shoe were on the other foot. He is nothing but a cocky, conceited bully. I haven't watched a Russel Crowe movie since "A beautiful mind". Not only because of his boorish behavior, but also because there haven't been any worth watching.

[kkeyvani]

Russell,

I hope you come in here. I'm Listening & Caring from gruntland.com. I got run away from there but this isn't about that.

I think you a brilliant actor and never, ever give up who you are...never! Never change. You my pretend friend are unchangeable, a unique individual and we as other humans on planet earth are blessed to have you as a fellow human. Come to the 9:30 club (or the Birchmere) and yes, I love your music. Your interview was too short. I stand behind you and wish you continued success. I have been a fan of yours for years and am proud to say I will always follow you and your music.

Feel free to contact me. I stopped posting at gruntland.com but if you were ever there you saw how I believed in you and fought for your right to be who you are bumps and all, or is that diamonds and dog sh*t. I'm in pretend cyber friendship with you and always will be.

Take care, man.

Kathy
Listening & Caring
Old Town Alexandria
Washington, DC

I created this logon JUST to let you know...I'm still out here and won't let you go, ever! "A well formed sentence." You NUT. {cyber kisses}

I sent you two awesome lettes and have never gotten my Cinderella Man ticket signed nor returned and I sent it gruntland, man.

Can't WAIT to see A Good Year! I'm there at the first showing! You can always count on me Russ.

Peace Out.

[kkeyvani]

ooOO I want to post again (I'm Listening & Caring) because I fogot to speak to your talent. I have a list Russell and you're on it...it's long. I'm a huge movie fan. You're at the top and often knock whoever replaces you off but that is insignificant...what matters is you, and you know this, are the best actor of your generation. You are still learning and I agree when you starting thinking you've got it down pat, you're dead in the water.

You learn with each film. M&C was exceptional. Make another if you get the chance. Overcome your fears because you'll always have more. Embrace your challenges as they will always be there. Love your children because they are all you own. Enjoy you love as it is true. Sing your heart out because it is you. Act for us Russ. Keep'em commin' you hear me?

I don't know you but I think you'll come in here because you want to know what we think.

Maybe you'll get what you wanted
Maybe you'll stumble upon it
Everything you ever wanted
In a permanent state
Maybe you'll know when you've seen it
Maybe if you say it you%u2019ll mean it
And when you find it you'll keep it
In a permanent state
A permanent state
~Coldplay

PS, you're right...your temper is what keeps you heathy. You're a passionate man...to change you would be to kill you. NEVER change...let the world deal with you...don't deal with them.

[kimdwright-2009]

While I may not condone the manner in which Mr. Crowe has expressed his anger on occasion, I like and respect his refreshing lack of pretense, his authenticity. I also take issue with the notion that he was "combative" from the outset of the interview because he took the position that interviews can be "artificial". His comments did not strike me as "combative" but simply as honest. To the contrary, with all due respect to Mr. Kroft, I thought he seemed intimidated by the interview, visibly uncomfortable, and that it was he who set a "combative" tone.

As to Mr. Crowe's remarks about the American legal system . . . it is vulnerable to manipulation. The opportunistic hotel clerk used the system to extort money from the rich and famous Crowe. If the telephone wielder had been an anonymous "average joe" without "deep pockets", a lawsuit would never have been filed, in this attorney's humble opinion.

[kimdwright-2009]

I neglected to add that I do, in fact, patronize some films just because they star Mr. Crowe, who I have learned I can always count on for an extraordinary performance. I've enjoyed many of his movies but my personal favorites are A Beautiful Mind and Cinderella Man, the latter of which undeniably deserved more attention and acclaim than it received, for many reasons.

[veramooloo]

Russell: Not with honors, no. Do I feel in a odd way that there should be some kind of understanding between me and an audience now that if I've done the movie, regardless of the subject matter, you should turn up 'cause it's gonna be a good film? I know that's kind of wacky to say that," Crowe says. "But, yeah, I do feel that. I do feel after, you know, 'L.A. Confidential,' 'The Insider,' 'Gladiator,' 'Beautiful Mind,' 'Master and Commander,' 'Cinderella Man,' there should be some understanding between me and the audience that, you know, if I've done it. One, I've put a lot of effort into it. And two, there's something about it that'll touch your heart."

I heartily agree with this. I have always picked the movies I see by the actors that are in them. I trust those actors to make good choices and I am rarely disappointed. Russell's movies will always be at the top of my list. Cinderella Man should have been a box office smash. It was one of the best movies I have ever seen. And yes it should have earned him awards and at the very least nominations for awards. And yes the audience should get that his movies will touch your heart, because, as his fans have come to understand, they have first touched his.

I wish he would stop explaining the past. Perhaps he has a desire to set the record straight for the sake of the children. Better to teach them to love themselves in spite of their flaws. And thats done by example.

[heatherabed]

Waht a BS interview on Russell Crowe Just talking and asking about his temper tantrumas, who cares, the guy is a great actor why did you not ask about his career and family and how he got there and what he thinks NNOOOO you just think NEgative Negative and go for the Bs We do think like you do get your minds out of the gutter next time and give us some information about these accomplished individuals We already have our minds out of the gutters You need to do the same .

[tootie2244]

Good grief! Couldn't we have had a little more about his life and career and a little less about his bad boy image. He's one of the most versatile actors on the planet and I was expecting more out of 60 Minutes. Betcha don't get another chance! Maria

[fredricksons]

We have Americans dying on the other side of the world for Oil. Children are kidnaped or molested daily. Our prisons are fuller than any other nation in the world, and some reason I am suppose to care that a person who makes more in an hour than most will make in month, has an anger managment problem and is now being exploited by a greedy grown man after his bank account??

[flaherdc]

It would be interesting to know whether Russell would have let it go with a handshake and an apology if a famous bloke had hit him with a phone because he couldn't get his way had the roles been reversed.

[bobhinds]

As Russell said he's a top gun = just like Tom and I feel he sould get his just due. Simple Mind just like Cinderalla Man were top gun movies. I'm a not a fan of anyone but I can say he's very convining as a actor. It's said he has a temper = we all have a temper and when were push it will show. I await his next film.

[sandycat2]

Could have fooled me, Fredricksons. I thought we have soldiers dying on the other side of the world because of Islamic terrorists and the 9/1 attack. Thanks for telling me the war on terror is about oil. I must remind you that Afghnistan has no oil and there isn't a whole lot of oil coming out of Iraq either. Woo, Russell Crowe isn't the only one with a temper and the will to express themselves, huh?

[trautgug]

Russell is a great actor and simply put human. I think it's funny how he didn't want the media to "pigeon hole" him into this bad boy image but this interview did just that. There is more to him than some fight he might of been in and why does that define who he is? He is caring, his is loving father and husband and great at his profession of acting. There was so much more 60 minutes could of asked or found out about him but I feel that the interview did what he feared.. made him answer questions about emotions that caused the media to over blow and re-play. He is one of the best entertainers out there. Thank goodness he is honest and upfront. Thank goodness he can smile and laugh at what hollywood tries to make him be. What I see his a man, an actor that has talent, intelligence and integrity. When Steve Irwin died his moment to shate his feelings for his loss was priceless. When he speaks of his children, he is loving and happy. Russell Crowe deserves respect and not to rehash a moment in a NYC hotel lobby. Justice was served and the hotel clerk got his pay day. Lets move on and next time focus on why he is a talented artist and good person. We love you Russell in NY and please come back anytime you like. I can't wait to see his new movie and see what else he can to in movies, music and in life.

Russell Crowe%u2019s assessment of the judicial system in NYS is right on point, it is abused. Nothing new here. Although his temper was inappropriate in public, his problem at the hotel could have easily been dealt with in private, between the hotel and Russell Crowe. Using the Criminal Justice System to beat-up Russell Crowe was not only unnecessary, but was a waste of taxpayers%u2019 money.

In my personal opinion, the employee at the hotel was nothing more than a gold digger. There is no doubt in my mind that the employee has been abused as bad or worse by other hotel guests than in this situation, and he did not bring suit those hotel guests. Of course, their pockets were not as deep as Crowe%u2019s pockets. If the employee was physically injured, I could see the need to provide a monetary award of some sort. However, this was not believed to be the case here.

Also, he is correct, what is past is past. What will it take to recognize the Russell Crowe of 2006; a married, responsible husband and father, and highly talented actor?

It seems that it is more news worthy to look at the colorful Crowe of the past, than the relaxed father and husband of the present.

Russell Crowe needs to be left alone and let him do what he does best, practice his art - acting.

[stonejwsm]

I wonder if anyone has told this jackass that because of his lenient sentence for his anger induced tirade, a person widely believed to be the killer of a Juilliard actress in New York got a light sentence for a subsequent assault. They cited Russell Crowe's sentence to get this guy a 3 month sentence instead of a year. That would have given the family of this actress a little bit of justice.
How would Russell feel if someone got off this light for potentially killing, stripping and leaving to decompose for several days a loved one or colleague of his?
Arrogant clod.
I liked Beautiful Mind and Gladiator. I will think twice before wasting another dime on this idiot.

[mimiblandin]

Lenient sentence? Come on, for NYC it was totally typical for a minor incident, first arrest without major injury. 90% of similar cases are pled out as low fine misdemeanors just like his. To blame him for an unrelated case with different circumstances is absurd.

Crowe comes across as a passionate and complex man. He's also brutally honest and authentic in interviews like this one. He speaks his mind. What would people rather have, lies and platitudes? I guess so. I wish more emphasis hadn't bogged down in old tabloid stories, including one incident that happened almost 20 years ago. What does that have to do with who he is today? I wish 60 Minutes had delved into that instead of editing this piece to focus on supposed temper issues.

In any case, he's a fine actor and I'll watch any film he choses to make.

[mimiblandin]

Lenient sentence? Come on, for NYC it was totally typical for a minor incident, first arrest without major injury. 90% of similar cases are pled out as low fine misdemeanors just like his. To blame him for an unrelated case with different circumstances is absurd.

Crowe comes across as a passionate and complex man. He's also brutally honest and authentic in interviews like this one. He speaks his mind. What would people rather have, lies and platitudes? I guess so. I wish more emphasis hadn't bogged down in old tabloid stories, including one incident that happened almost 20 years ago. What does that have to do with who he is today? I wish 60 Minutes had delved into that instead of editing this piece to focus on supposed temper issues.

In any case, he's a fine actor and I'll watch any film he choses to make.

[mimiblandin]

Lenient sentence? Come on, for NYC it was totally typical for a minor incident, first arrest without major injury. 90% of similar cases are pled out as low fine misdemeanors just like his. To blame him for an unrelated case with different circumstances is absurd.

Crowe comes across as a passionate and complex man. He's also brutally honest and authentic in interviews like this one. He speaks his mind. What would people rather have, lies and platitudes? I guess so. I wish more emphasis hadn't bogged down in old tabloid stories, including one incident that happened almost 20 years ago. What does that have to do with who he is today? I wish 60 Minutes had delved into that instead of editing this piece to focus on supposed temper issues.

In any case, he's a fine actor and I'll watch any film he choses to make.

[wicked7771]

I think it is a joke for some people on here to say that the desk clerk got what he deserved. I would love to see your reactions if some spoiled actor threw a phone at you. As if you would just accept a handshake (rolls eyes). This is an act of assault no matter how one slices it. BUT yet again, if it is an actor, let it slide...if it were a normal person on the street who did this, you people would be screaming for more than a handshake. As long as you people bow down to these clowns, they are going to keep on believing that they are above not only the law but above everyone!

As for him deserving respect, what a joke. He's a family man???? Maybe now he is, but I certainly did not see him respecting Dennis Quaids' family life when he was sleeping with Meg Ryan.

This guy has respect for ONLY himself. Watch out if his wife or children ever get out of line! Where will his temper take him then?

People, stop making excuses for this childish behavior! The guy deserves no respect because he doesn't GIVE respect!

[wattermelann]

I don't judge people I don't know nor interacted with. I have always enjoyed Mr. Crowe's characters. I have a temper. And I gladly display it. There are some people out there in the world who like to solicit temper, who like to anger people-they get pleasure from it. $160.00 and the plaintiff threatened a civil suit? Another lazy opportunist. I am sure Mr. Crowe has had his share of injuries too from others tempers. Haven't we always told our children when they fight to apologize? How rare to find another human being still practicing the right way to end disagreements!

[splendon]

Mr. Crowe has the right to display his temper wherever and whenever he wants. However not the right to physically hurt other people (At least not in this country). If he want to use this country and American dollars to support his ranch in Australia he has to obide by the laws in this country while here, or stay out. He thinks of this country as Employment? As far as Tom Cruise's actions (Who I think is a "Jerk"), can answer for himself. He does not need the support of another "Jerk" who can't even control himself. By the way Mr. Crowe is a good actor, but couldn't shine the shoes of another difficult actor "Marlon Brando" who by the way didn't like interviews, but never physically hurt anyone. Bill Jupiter Florida

[veramooloo]

OK final Post:

Its my observation that Australians have many more words to describe what we Americans call a fight. Kinda like Eskimos and snow. Their words are gentler sounding..."dust-up" for example, and there are many others. They sound like words that one might use to downplay the incident to wives and sweethearts later....something between the men. Its quite possible that there are, as he says, cultural differences between us, and that this would have been more likely brushed aside, had it happened downunder. Because Russell relies on a work Visa to earn his living here, the desk clerk had a great deal more leverage than he would normally have to demand a settlement. In reality, they both behaved like *****, there was blame on both sides and no need for it to be dragged out as much as it was.

[bluestardad]

WHO GIVES A FLYING FORNICATION WHAT THIS GUY THINKS OR ANYTHING ABOUT HIM?

[michaeldbarr]

the Russell Crowe piece was perhaps the very first piece on Sixty Minutes that was not worthy of Sixy Minutes. Not only did it appear to have been written by a PR firm, it wasn't even clever.
shame on you!

[gibby174]

Steve Kroft's interview with Russell Crowe started off with alot of negative energy. Mr. Kroft was very smug and quite arrogant, and I think that attitude started the whole interview off poorly.
Russell Crowe had no where else to go but to have his own smug attitude with the interviewer. We, the viewers, would like to have a good atmoshere to start with, and then maybe get down to some real heart and soul of what makes Crowe tick???

[gibby174]

Steve Kroft's interview with Russell Crowe started off with alot of negative energy. Mr. Kroft was very smug and quite arrogant, and I think that attitude started the whole interview off poorly.
Russell Crowe had no where else to go but to have his own smug attitude with the interviewer. We, the viewers, would like to have a good atmoshere to start with, and then maybe get down to some real heart and soul of what makes Crowe tick???

[hofkurz]

Mr. Kroft needs a "How To Ask Questions" class. He isn't the only one BTW. I am confused with the line of questioning last night. Was he trying to provoke Mr. Crowe into displaying his alleged temper? I think he was. It is sad that 60 Minutes has now lowered itself to tabloid level.
Maybe a line of questioning that focused on movie roles, learning curves, preparation, difficulty, etc. would have been more appropriate?