Michael Kovac/Getty Images for AFI
In the early 2000s, Russell Crowe was one of the biggest actors in the world. And while he’s remained a respected actor all the while, it’s been quite some time since he’s been in “movie star” shape. His upcoming role in Chad Stahelski’s Highlander reboot looks set to change that, though.
Over the weekend, the Oscar winning Aussie actor posted a workout photo on social media showing visible progress as he trains to recapture something close to his Gladiator-era physique for his role in the upcoming Highlander reboot. Russell Crowe is playing Juan Sánchez-Villalobos Ramírez — the immortal mentor role made iconic by Sean Connery in the original 1986 film — opposite Henry Cavill in the lead role of Connor MacLeod/Highlander.
Academy Award winning actor Russell Crowe is getting jacked for his role as Ramirez in Chad Stahelski’s Highlander reboot
There can be only one … pic.twitter.com/wR80g36MMb
— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) April 18, 2026
In recent years, Crowe has starred in films such as Unhinged, Thor: Love and Thunder, The Greatest Beer Run Ever, The Pope’s Exorcist, Land of Bad, The Exorcism, Kraven the Hunter, Nuremberg, The Weight, and Beast.
Last week, footage from the production was shared at CinemaCon during Amazon MGM’s presentation and showcased brutal action sequences described as echoing Stahelski’s iconic John Wick films — including a neon-drenched fight at a crowded rave, sword duels, and motorcycle chases. Cavill is heard declaring “I am Connor MacLeod, who was born in 1518, and I am immortal,” while Bautista’s Kurgan warns him: “When my sword changes history, you will have a front-row seat, Highlander.”
The footage ended with a montage of various characters proclaiming, one after another: “There can be only one,” which is the iconic tagline from the film.
Currently scheduled to release in 2027, Stahelski’s Highlander stars Henry Cavill, Russell Crowe, Dave Bautista, Marisa Abela, Karen Gillan, Djimon Hounsou, Jeremy Irons, Max Zhang, and Drew McIntyre. The project does not have an official release date at this time.