Russell Crowe is not a typical Hollywood star. The 44-year-old actor has famously been in and out of trouble due to his fiery temper.

But these days, he's married to Danielle Spencer with sons Charles, four, and Tennyson, two. He owns the South Sydney Rabbitohs, fronts his band 30 Odd Foot Of Grunts and has again teamed up with director Ridley Scott for the new thriller Body Of Lies.

What made you turn down a role in the film Australia with Nicole Kidman?

I was talking to Baz Luhrmann about that film for years. I was ready 2005. He started in 2007. Somebody's gotta earn the milk money. No doubt I'll regret not being involved but I have to make decisions for my family.

What does your band and your music bring to you?

The last time we toured I can remember thinking: ‘I should be at home with my kids.'
I started to see things in a more simple form. It's not fair on my boys and my wife.

They could come with you?

In theory. But everybody who's ever really done it knows that it's not practical. Next year when we tour, Danielle and I are talking about it because she's recording a new album.

You could be like the Partridge family?

Yeah, we could! Danielle's in a difficult situation. Before she was a wife and mother she was a rock'n'roll artist. I've played thousands of shows, and there's something fulfilling about it, but it's nowhere near as good as being there for your son when he needs you at 6.30am.

How do you decide on roles?

The one with the shortest schedule! I don't have any grand designs. I love doing it. But there's a certain fire that's been tempered I think.

Do you care about this misconception about you?

I think I'm beyond caring. I'll just get on with my life, and I'll prioritise my life, and that's my wife and kids. Everything else comes after that.

By Sian Edwards/Viva Press