South Sydney co-owner and Hollywood superstar Russell Crowe is taking a significant behind-the-scenes role in the NRL’s Las Vegas adventure, but another big-name actor, Hugh Jackman, is proving hard to lock down.
Crowe is not really known for his background work, but that is what he is doing for the NRL as rugby league’s governing body looks to gain traction in the US before the historic season-opening double-header on March 3.
Sources with knowledge of the situation, who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the talks, said Crowe recently had a face-to-face meeting with NRL executives, but no one at head office was willing to confirm the discussions, let alone divulge any of the details of what took place. But other sources say Crowe is playing a significant role in the NRL’s American mission.
NRL officials also want to get passionate Sea Eagles fan Jackman involved, but they are still trying to lock him down.
Crowe has made it clear to league officials that selling the game in the US will be tough. He is happy to be in the background and it is highly unlikely you will see him at the NRL’s upcoming media sessions in Las Vegas. He is busy in his day job, making movies after having time off due to the strike by Hollywood writers and actors.
Crowe is a strong supporter of the NRL’s bid to break into the US market. His Rabbitohs are front and centre in the NRL’s push to capitalise on America’s love of contact sport.
Russell Crowe in the stands at a Souths game with fellow Hollywood stars Chris Hemsworth and Jeff Goldblum.Credit: Getty
It was always thought Crowe and Jackman would be the frontmen for the South Sydney v Manly clash, but unless there is a last-minute change of plan, neither will be at the NRL’s launch this month.
It also remains to be seen whether Crowe will be with Souths when they go into camp in San Diego in February, before moving to Vegas.
Crowe’s secret meeting to sell NRL in America
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03.12.2023
South Sydney co-owner and Hollywood superstar Russell Crowe is taking a significant behind-the-scenes role in the NRL’s Las Vegas adventure, but another big-name actor, Hugh Jackman, is proving hard to lock down.
Crowe is not really known for his background work, but that is what he is doing for the NRL as rugby league’s governing body looks to gain traction in the US before the historic season-opening double-header on March 3.
Sources with knowledge of the........
© The Sydney Morning Herald
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