Russell Crowe doesn't shy away from being a sensitive man. That much was apparent in the beautiful, heartbreaking tribute he just shared to reveal that his father had died. Russell's dad, John Crowe, died on Tuesday, the actor revealed. He was 85 years old.
The 56-year-old actor told his fans and followers about his dad's death on Twitter. In his sad, sweet post, he wrote, "I arrived back in the bush last night. Today, although the sun is shining and the torrential rain has abated, this date will forever be tinged with sadness. My dear old man, my beautiful dad, the most gentle of men, has passed away."
Russell was clearly brokenhearted as he was writing the post. But his words were so touching that his deep love and appreciation for his dad were instantly made clear.
Russell Crowe is devastated by his dad's death. But even in his grief, he wanted to make sure it was known how much his dad meant to him. His beautiful words on Twitter certainly got that message across.
Later, Russell added to the post. "I’m posting this because I know there are people all over the world who’s heart he touched and who’s ribs he tickled with his sparkly eyes and his cheeky attitude to everyone, and everything, and this is probably as efficient a method as any to pass on the news," he wrote.
The actor also shared some details about his dad's life. He wrote that he was born on March 13, 1936, in Christchurch, New Zealand. He also shared that he died in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, which had been his longtime home.
"Rest In Peace," he added.
Losing a parent is incredibly difficult, but we don't often hear men — especially men in the public eye — open up about their grief. Not only was Russell's post a beautiful tribute, but it also pushed back against a gender stereotype that men aren't allowed to show emotion. It seems that Russell may have learned that gentleness that he mentioned from his father.
Last year, during the start of the health crisis, Russell went to be with his father. He flew home to isolate with him. He also shared a picture of his smiling dad on Instagram, writing, "Isolating with the old man. 84 now. Wearing a hat I got at Princeton while shooting A Beautiful Mind."
It's clear that Russell and his father had a special bond and were extremely close. And it's touching that Russell went to be with his dad last year. Surely now, it's time he will forever cherish.
After sharing the news that his dad had died, Russell updated his header image on Twitter. Of course, it was the lovely photo of his dad that he shared last year. It's a beautiful tribute and yet another way Russell is choosing to show his love.
Russell is hard at work, filming for the highly anticipated Marvel movie, Thor: Love and Thunder. Right now, he's clearly focused on the loss of his dad and his fond memories of the man he loved so much. It's truly lovely to hear him share his thoughts and feelings with the world.
