Director Ridley Scott recently revealed an on-set clash between Gladiator co-stars Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix due to Phoenix’s last-minute nerves. In an interview, Scott shared that while filming the 2000 classic, Phoenix nearly backed out of his role as Commodus after getting into costume, expressing doubts about playing the character. Scott managed to reassure Phoenix, likening himself to a “big brother or dad,” which ultimately helped the actor settle into the challenging role.
Russell Crowe, however, was reportedly less understanding, and Scott recalled Crowe confronting Phoenix, saying, “This is terribly unprofessional.” Crowe’s disappointment was rooted in the intense dedication required on the demanding set, where both actors were expected to embody their characters with complete commitment. Crowe and Phoenix haven’t collaborated again, though Phoenix recently reunited with Scott on the film Napoleon.
Phoenix’s hesitations were not unique to Gladiator. Earlier this year, he left an unnamed 1930s gay romance film by director Todd Haynes days before filming, resulting in the project’s cancellation. When asked about his exit, Phoenix was reluctant to provide details, suggesting that sharing his thoughts wouldn’t be helpful to others involved.
Phoenix’s reputation for last-minute decisions even saw him replaced by James McAvoy in the 2016 thriller Split, directed by M. Night Shyamalan. While Crowe’s approach to professionalism might differ, Scott’s anecdotes underline Phoenix’s complex and intense relationship with his roles.
