Best remembered for his mesmeric performance in Gladiator in 2000, Russell Crowe has lost over 60 pounds for his new role as Robin Hood, and clearly recaptured the Roman physique that caused such a stir. The 45-year old Maori is now legally buff, and even sports a closely-cropped hairstyle to complete the effect.
Sadly, Russ’s perception of Robin does away with infamous tights, opting instead for long, leather trousers and high boots. “He’s got armor. He’s very medieval,’ Brian Grazer, the movie’s producer told London’s Daily Mail. ”He looks more like he did in Gladiator than anything we’re used to with Robin Hood.”The updated wardrobe and Russell’s successful battle with the bulge is probably a relief for Mr. Grazer and friends as Russ’s weight has been causing some serious problems with casting. In February, Sienna Miller was axed as Maid Marian because the Producers were worried she’d make Russ look even more bloated. “Russ never lost the weight he put on for ‘Body Of Lies,’ so the love scenes with Sienna would have been laughable.” says an insider. “They’re looking for an older, plump actress for the role, so Russ doesn’t look like a paunchy grandpa” explains our man in the know. While I’m not sure she’d be flattered if she knew the real reasons, Cate Blanchett has now been tapped for the role.
Going by Russ’s smokin’ new look, I’d say those in charge were all fretting for nothing. But you can see for yourselves when the new movie makes its US debut on May 14th, 2010.