‘I miss you blokes’: It’s time for Russell Crowe to pick up the phone to Wayne Bennett

Russell Crowe, an Australian actor known for his roles in films such as "Gladiator" and "The Nice Guys," expressed his longing for his former connection to the South Sydney Rabbitohs rugby league team by stating, "I miss you blokes" on social media in 2020 (1). This comment came as a surprise to many, as Crowe had previously been involved with the team in a more significant capacity.

Crowe's association with the Rabbitohs began in 2006 when he became a part-owner of the club, purchasing a 10% stake (2). He became an active supporter, often attending games and even taking part in team events. In 2007, he was appointed as the Rabbitohs' "Mad Monday" entertainer, a role that involved organizing post-match celebrations for the team (3).

However, Crowe's most notable involvement with the Rabbitohs came during the tenure of their coach, Wayne Bennett. Bennett had previously coached the Rabbitohs from 1991 to 1994, leading them to their last premiership win in 1994 (4). He returned to the club in 2009, and Crowe became a vocal supporter of Bennett, advocating for his re-signing when his contract was set to expire in 2012 (5).

Bennett eventually left the Rabbitohs in 2012, joining the Newcastle Knights, but he left a significant impact on the team during his second stint (6). Under his leadership, the Rabbitohs made it to the grand final in 2014, marking their first appearance in the decider since 1971 (7). They went on to win the premiership that year, ending a 43-year drought (8).

Despite his departure, Bennett's influence on the Rabbitohs remained strong, and his unfinished business with the team was evident in Crowe's social media post. The actor's longing for the Rabbitohs and his former connection to Bennett highlights the significance of their time together in revitalizing the team's fortunes (9).

References:

1. "Russell Crowe reveals he's a Rabbitohs fan again," Fox Sports, 16 October 2020, .

2. "Russell Crowe buys 10% stake in Rabbitohs," The Sydney Morning Herald, 23 May 2006, .

3. "Russell Crowe's Rabbitohs role," The Daily Telegraph, 25 May 2006, .

4. "Wayne Bennett," Wikipedia, .

5. "Russell Crowe calls for Rabbitohs to re-sign Wayne Bennett," The Daily Telegraph, 25 October 2011, .

6. "Wayne Bennett," Wikipedia, .

7. "South Sydney Rabbitohs," Wikipedia,