#2406 - Russell Crowe

Overview

This episode features a deep and multifaceted conversation with Russell Crowe, exploring his role as Hermann Göring in the historical drama Nuremberg, the psychology of evil, the challenges of portraying complex characters, and broader discussions on societal issues like gambling, addiction, and environmental restoration.

Notable Quotes

- Charm is one of the greatest weapons of evil. – Russell Crowe, on the deceptive nature of dangerous individuals.

- If you lie down with dogs, you're gonna get fleas, Hermann. – Russell Crowe, reflecting on Göring's choices and alliances.

- The greatest country in the world is the United States of America, but it remains great by affording opportunity, not taking it away. – Russell Crowe, on the importance of fairness and opportunity in governance.

🎥 Portraying Hermann Göring in *Nuremberg*

- Crowe delves into the psychological complexity of Göring, a man who was both a war hero and a key architect of Nazi atrocities.

- He highlights Göring's transformation from a celebrated pilot in WWI to a drug-addicted, manipulative figure during the Nuremberg trials.

- Crowe emphasizes the importance of portraying Göring's humanity to understand how ordinary people can commit extraordinary evil.

- The actor prepared for five years, researching Göring's life, including his addiction to opiates and his nuanced motivations.

🧠 The Psychology of Evil and Dehumanization

- Crowe and Rogan discuss how incremental changes in society can lead to horrific outcomes, likening it to the boiling frog metaphor.

- They explore the human capacity for dehumanization, with Crowe noting the dangers of reducing people to binary categories like red or blue.

- The conversation touches on the role of propaganda and misinformation in shaping public perception, both historically and in modern times.

🌍 Environmental Restoration and Personal Projects

- Crowe shares his efforts to restore his Australian property to its natural state, including planting thousands of native trees and removing invasive species.

- He reflects on the long-term impact of these projects, aiming to leave a legacy of environmental stewardship for future generations.

- The discussion underscores the therapeutic and grounding effects of connecting with nature.

🎭 The Challenges of Acting and Creative Balance

- Crowe describes the mental toll of embodying dark characters like Göring and the importance of finding ways to turn off after filming.

- He shares insights into his disciplined approach to fitness and recovery, including his use of cutting-edge medical treatments to manage chronic pain and inflammation.

- The actor also reflects on the importance of taking breaks and learning to embrace vacations as a way to recharge creatively.

🎲 Gambling, Addiction, and Societal Norms

- The duo critiques the normalization of gambling through apps and advertisements, particularly its impact on younger generations.

- Crowe recounts his personal experiences with gambling and the addictive tendencies he inherited from his great-grandfather.

- They discuss the broader societal implications of addiction, including alcohol and social media, emphasizing the need for education and self-discipline.