For his Biblical film of epic proportions, Russell Crowe has grown a suitable beard to fit the bill.
The Gladiator actor has been spotted out and about with his new facial accessory in between filming new movie Noah. In the movie, Russell plays the title character who is tasked with challenge of building an ark to save the earth's animals before it floods.
Known for fully immersing himself in his acting roles, 48-year-old Russell was seen cycling around New York, where the set is located, looking fit and sporting his impressive beard.
The New-Zealand-born star has also been providing his fans with online updates about the progress of his beard, recently tweeting: "the status of my beard is now "Epic as..."Whilst Russell’s new look would be apt for guest appearances as Father Christmas this festive season, the actor unfortunately revealed that it will be "gone mid November so, no, I'm not booking Christmas shows #missedoppurtunity."
Noah, which retells the Old Testament story in a modern setting, is being created by American director Darren Aronofsky, the man behind 2010's Oscar winning ballet thriller Black Swan. The film boasts an impressive line-up with Jennifer Connelly, Ray Winstone, Anthony Hopkins and Emma Watson all joining Russell as part of the cast.
Whilst the film centres around Noah's quest to build an ark, Russell encountered a boat-related mishap of his own back in September. During a kayaking trip with a friend the duo lost their way adrift of Cold Spring Harbour on Long Island Sound, where he was shooting his film Oyster Bay.
After making their way towards Huntington Bay beach the pair signaled for help from a patrol boat and were thankfully rescued by the US Coast Guard.
Russell’s hard work in front of the camera comes amid of speculation that his marriage to Danielle Spencer has broken down. In October Australian media began to report that the couple, who have been together for nine years and have two young sons together, have decided to go their separate ways. Neither party has yet to confirm or deny the claims however. Noah is due to hit cinemas in 2014.