Great news for die-hard fans of Oscar-winning cinema, especially those fond of the beloved rebel gladiator. Russell Crowe, globally renowned for his legendary role as Maximus Decimus Meridius in ‘Gladiator’, is set to conquer the Sanremo stage, but this time not with a sword. The 74th edition of the Festival (Sanremo 2024) will witness the return of the gladiator who once dominated the cinematic arena.
The Gladiator’s Return after 23 Years
After his iconic appearance in 2001 during the 51st edition of the Festival hosted by Raffaella Carrà, the iconic gladiator is gearing up for a comeback. Coincidentally, in the same year, in 2001, the Oscar-winning film that captivated the world was released. The actor is ready to meet Italy once again, and we are ready to welcome him.
Crowe will be a guest on the third night of the Festival, taking place from February 6 to 10 at the usual historic location: the Teatro Ariston in Sanremo, Liguria.
A (Somewhat Italian) Gladiator on Display for Amadeus
Amadeus, firmly at the helm of the Sanremo Festival since 2019, responded dramatically to a teasing remark posted on a social network by none other than the gladiator Russell Crowe. “It would be extraordinary to perform again at Sanremo. I hope we can come to an agreement and finalize the details,” Crowe declared, drawing the attention of the festival’s management.
It seems that Russell Crowe will not only be a guest but will also perform with his band, presenting some American blues. The actor is currently in Australia for the filming of a movie, scheduled until February 6. Just in time to reach the beautiful Ligurian Riviera for the evening of February 8.
Recently, also through social media, the actor revealed his origins after years of wrong attempts. Crowe shared his discovery that, despite being a native of New Zealand, his great-great-great-grandfather, Luigi Ghezzi, born in Ascoli Piceno in 1829, arrived in New Zealand in 1864. Although the Italian component in his blood is minimal, Italy can only be honored by it.
“At my signal, unleash hell.”
