Crowe sails calmer waters

Russell Crowe is notorious for his wild behaviour, but the Hollywood star was the perfect gentleman at the royal premiere of his new film.

The reason for his new-found charm was at his side - his pregnant wife Danielle Spencer, whom he married in April.

Crowe stars in Master and Commander: The Far Side Of The World which is set during the Napoleonic Wars and is based on the popular books by Patrick O'Brian.

The role of British captain Jack Aubrey marks a return to the gritty action roles that made the Australian a star.

The royal guest at the Odeon Leicester Square was Prince Charles, a vice-admiral in the Royal Navy, who told director Peter Weir how much he had been looking forward to seeing the film.

The prince, who has had a difficult few weeks of media rumours about allegations concerning his private life, chatted to Crowe, his co-star Paul Bettany and Sting. "The prince seemed in good spirits and completely at ease," said an eyewitness.

Crowe said he was "interested" to meet the Prince. The 39-year-old star said he is due to take time off work when his 33-year -old wife has their baby, which is due in January. "I am looking forward to it," he said.

During filming, Crowe organised games of touch rugby to help the cast bond with each other. His reputation for being unpredictable gave the film a suspenseful edge, according to Weir.

On previous visits to London, Crowe has hit the headlines. He held a TV executive up against the wall backstage at the Bafta Awards two years ago after learning his acceptance speech had been cut.

Last year he came to blows with a New Zealand businessman in the Zuma restaurant in Kensington. Both men were warned about their behaviour by police.