Author Description

Russell Crowe has a fascinating personal and professional story. His early life was spent moving between his native New Zealand and Australia as his parents' film-set catering business stoked his fascination with the movie industry, and his first taste of fame came in a touring stage production of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show." Eventually Russell was drawn to more challenging roles and to the Australian screen, where he starred in his breakthrough film "Romper Stomper." Romances with some of the most beautiful women in the world heightened his profile, but it was his demanding, character-driven work in films such as "L.A. Confidential," "A Beautiful Mind," and "Gladiator" that established Russell's reputation as a true professional. From the action of "Master and Commander" to thrillers "The Insider" and "State of Play" and romantic comedies such as "A Good Y"ear, Russell is praised for his versatility and has been celebrated by peers at the Oscars and the Golden Globes. Journalist and celebrity biographer Martin Howden goes back to the times Russell worked as a busker, bartender, fruit picker, bingo-number caller, and insurance salesman before hitting the big time, and explores the truth behind his reputation for having one of the most volatile temperaments in show business.