Russell Crowe Reaches Settlement

Russell Crowe has settled what was sure to be a highly publicized lawsuit with Nestor Estrada, a Manhattan hotel employee who bore the brunt of Crowe's rage after the actor was unable to make a long-distance phone call. The details of the phone problems have yet to surface, but Crowe's most recent violent outburst and attack on Estrada made headlines around the world. Apparently, an enraged Crowe threw the phone at Estrada, striking him in the face and causing lacerations and "substantial pain".

Although the real-life Gladiator is clearly suffering from some alcohol and anger management issues, in this instance he was quick to claim responsibility and accountability for his actions. Less than 48 hours after the incident, Crowe appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman and expressed his heartfelt regrets. "I'm extremely sorry for this whole incident and I regret everything that took place," Crowe told Letterman. "The bottom line is I did something pretty stupid...This is possibly the most shameful situation I've ever gotten myself [into] in my life."

While one could argue that Crowe's public contrition is a sign that he may be growing up, it may simply be that he is perpetuating his denial of his problem. I'm guessing this won't be the last time we hear about a Russell Crowe incident involving alcohol and erratic or even violent behavior. And although things seem to be mended between Estrada and Crowe, the Cinderella Man still faces criminal charges in New York city. That shouldn't be too much of a media circus.