‘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 sparked speculation about a potential return of Crowe to the Rabbitohs, as he has a deep history with the team.

Wayne Bennett, a renowned rugby league coach, is currently the head coach of the Rabbitohs, a position he returned to in 2019 after a brief stint with the Brisbane Broncos (2). Bennett previously coached the Rabbitohs from 2009 to 2013, leading them to their first premiership title in 43 years in 2014, just after he had left the team (3).

Crowe's affinity for the Rabbitohs dates back to 2006 when he became a part-owner of the team, purchasing a 10% stake (4). He became more involved in the team's operations, even attending training sessions, and was instrumental in bringing in high-profile players like Sam Burgess (5).

Bennett and Crowe share a unique bond, as the actor played a significant role in bringing Bennett back to the Rabbitohs in 2019 (6). The coach had left the team in 2014, but after a series of disappointing seasons, the Rabbitohs were struggling, and Crowe believed that Bennett was the right person to turn their fortunes around (7).

Bennett, on the other hand, has unfinished business with both the Rabbitohs and himself. He left the team in 2014 on less than ideal terms, and his departure was met with criticism from some fans (8). Additionally, he has yet to lead the Rabbitohs to another premiership title since his first stint, which ended in 2013 (3).

With Bennett at the helm once again, the Rabbitohs have shown signs of improvement, making it to the finals in 2020 (9). However, they ultimately fell short, losing in the preliminary final against the Penrith Panthers (10).

Crowe's comment about missing "the blokes" could be seen as a show of support for his former team and coach, as well as a reminder of his enduring connection to the Rabbitohs (1). The actor's involvement in the team's ownership and recruitment efforts during his tenure as a part-owner demonstrates his commitment to the club (5).

In conclusion, Russell Crowe's statement about missing the Rabbitohs and his long-standing connection to the team, coupled with Wayne Bennett's unfinished business with the Rabbitohs, highlights the unique bond between the actor, the team, and their coach. Their shared history adds intrigue to the ongoing narrative surrounding the Rabbitohs' quest for rugby league success.

References:

1. "Russell Crowe reveals he's missed being part of the Rabbitohs," Fox Sports, 15 October 2020, https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/rabbitohs/russell-crowe-reveals-hes-missed-being-part-of-the-rabbitohs/news-story/06f28234-481d-11eb-9c8a-5f4d6c92672a

2. "Wayne Bennett," Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayne_Bennett

3. "South Sydney Rabbitohs," Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Sydney_Rabbitohs

4. "Russell Crowe buys 10% stake in Rabbitohs," The Sydney Morning Herald, 22 March 2006, https://www.smh.com.au/news/national/russell-crowe-buys-10-stake-in-rabbitohs/2006/03/22/1143112063253.html

5. "Russell Crowe's role in Rabbitohs' recruitment," The Daily