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Russell Crowe never understood the idea of an actor utilizing stunt doubles.
In a recent interview with Radar Online, the Oscar winner commented on his decision to forego stunt doubles in favor of realism, despite the fact that the years have taken their toll on his physique.
He recounted, "I remember back in the early '90s, I was chatting to these older American males, and this one man remarked, 'Look, do you see that guy over there who's dressed precisely like you? He's here to save you from having to spend six or seven hours a day rolling in the dirt. And I'm like, 'But I'm portraying the part, so I'll be rolling in the dirt.'"
Crowe recognized that his devotion has come at a cost.
Crowe, 59, has a variety of problems, including no cartilage in his big toes, fasciitis, shin splints, and bone marrow edema beneath both knees. His back is plagued with problems, and his left shoulder, which has had two procedures, is now so arthritic that it requires significant surgery.
"I've got ribs that just pop off the spine if I put them under too much pressure," he added, describing the wear and tear that decades of demanding roles had caused.
Despite these hurdles, Crowe maintains his approach. "That's the way I did it," he stated, reflecting on his decision to accept the physical demands of his jobs.
Crowe chose to perform his own stunts because he wanted to completely inhabit his roles, no matter the cost.
