Russell Crowe vows to suppress emotions while watching Rabbitohs games

In Australia, Russell Crowe, renowned actor and passionate fan of the South Sydney Rabbitohs NRL team, has publicly declared his intention to maintain a cooler demeanor during matches. This decision is rooted in his recognition of how his animated reactions could inadvertently impact the players' performance and public perception. Crowe became a co-owner of the Rabbitohs in 2006, working alongside businessman Peter Holmes à Court to revive the club, which was facing significant challenges at the time. Under their partnership, the club benefited from financial improvement and even clinched a premiership title in 2014, breaking a longstanding drought after 43 years. His ownership has included key recruitment efforts that brought standout players such as Sam Burgess and Greg Inglis into the fold, enhancing the Rabbitohs' competitiveness on the field. Crowe often demonstrated his enthusiasm during games, but he acknowledged that this could unintentionally create additional pressure for the team. The emotional highs and lows of supporting the Rabbitohs became more pronounced after a disappointing 2024 season, where the team finished last, exacerbated by injuries and a porous defense that allowed a dismal average of 28.4 points per game. These struggles led to the dismissal of coach Jason Demetriou, with Wayne Bennett set to return as head coach in 2025. As the team looks to rebound in the upcoming season, Crowe's reflections on his role as a supporter signal a thoughtful approach to fandom that prioritizes the collective wellbeing of the players and staff over personal emotion. In 2025, the Rabbitohs aim to rebuild the squad with new signings, suggesting a hopeful outlook despite the tumultuous previous season.