Russell Crowe recently shared a remarkable story about first meeting Henry Cavill when Cavill was still a teenager, highlighting a surprising connection between the actors ahead of their work together on the upcoming Highlander reboot. Their initial meeting took place during the filming of Proof of Life in England, long before they starred as Jor-El and Superman respectively in Man of Steel. This revelation sheds new light on the nature of their professional relationship and candidly explores Cavill’s early aspirations in acting.
The Unexpected Meeting During the Filming of Proof of Life
While shooting a scene at Stowe School in England around the year 2000 for Proof of Life, Crowe’s attention was drawn to a rugby game taking place nearby where a particular young player showed exceptional skills. That player turned out to be a young Henry Cavill. During a break, Cavill approached Crowe and introduced himself, asking for advice on how to enter the acting world. This brief yet impactful exchange initiated a lasting impression for Crowe.
Following the filming, Crowe returned to Stowe School for an event involving Merlin Hanbury-Tenison, the boy who portrayed Crowe’s son in Proof of Life. Taking the opportunity, Crowe signed a photo of his role as Maximus from Gladiator, inscribing:
To Henry, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, Russell.
This signed photograph became an important symbol for Cavill, who preserved it through his various moves, fueling his passion and commitment to his acting career.
Years Later: A Serendipitous Reunion at the Gym
Many years after their initial meeting, Crowe and Cavill crossed paths again in a gym on the outskirts of Chicago while preparing for their roles in Man of Steel. Crowe, working out on one side, suspected that the man training on the other side might be the actor playing Superman. After spending over a week in close proximity, Cavill finally approached and introduced himself. It was then that Crowe realized this was the same Henry Cavill he had met years before at Stowe School.
The next time I see Henry Cavill is in a gym in Illinois, the outskirts of Chicago. I’m working on one side of the gym, he’s working on the other. And I’m thinking to myself, well, I’m Superman’s dad. I reckon that must be Superman over there. It looks like it. So we worked in the gym a week or more together before we talk. And finally, one day, he comes over, puts his hand out, and we start talking. And at one point, I went, do I know you? He goes, yes, sir, you do. And he reminds me. And I went, Henry? That Henry? Is this Henry? It was crazy. That’s wild. Absolutely wild, right?
This coincidence struck Crowe as “absolutely wild,” cementing a profound connection between the two actors over nearly two decades.
Henry Cavill’s Choice and Crowe’s Role in the Highlander Reboot
As filming for the Highlander reboot approaches, Cavill, who plays Connor MacLeod, took the initiative in casting Crowe as Juan Sánchez-Villalobos Ramírez, a role originally played by Sean Connery in the 1986 classic. Crowe revealed that Cavill insisted on having only one actor for this role, choosing him exclusively. This decision signals a new chapter in their professional collaboration, with both actors enthusiastic about the upcoming project.
And so now we have this other situation where he’s in a position of being the Highlander. And they asked him who he wanted to be Ramirez. And he said, I’ve only got one option, and you got to get him. And so that’s fantastic. It’s going to be a lot of fun when we eventually get around to make it. And so now we’ve got the third stage of our connection. When we get to do it, it’s going to be great.
Production Delay Due to Cavill’s Injury
Despite plans for production to begin, filming of Highlander has been delayed due to Henry Cavill suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon. The project, directed by Chad Stahelski, will now resume in 2026 once Cavill has fully recovered. This reboot of the iconic fantasy franchise has seen various iterations over the years, and the delay signals patience for a fresh take featuring a talented, star-studded cast.
Background: The Highlander Franchise and New Cast Members
The Highlander franchise began in 1986 with Christopher Lambert starring as Connor MacLeod and Sean Connery as his mentor Ramirez. The series explores MacLeod’s identity as an immortal warrior who is destined to battle rivals. Across its history, the franchise expanded to several sequels, an animated feature, and multiple television shows.
The upcoming reboot stars Henry Cavill as Connor MacLeod and Russell Crowe as Ramirez, supported by Karen Gillan as Heather, Dave Bautista as The Kurgan, Marisa Abela, Djimon Hounsou, Max Zhang, and Drew McIntyre. The combination of these actors promises an intense revival that pays homage to the original while exploring new directions under Chad Stahelski’s direction.
Upcoming Projects and Looking Ahead
Aside from Highlander, Russell Crowe is currently promoting his upcoming film Nuremberg, which is scheduled for release on November 7, 2025. As production on Highlander awaits Cavill’s recovery, fans anticipate the compelling dynamic that Crowe and Cavill will bring to their iconic roles, enriched by a history that stretches back to Cavill’s childhood.
Their longstanding connection, from a teenage rugby player at Stowe School seeking acting advice to leading actors united in a major franchise reboot, highlights a unique journey of growth and mentorship in the entertainment industry.
