Russell Crowe surprises yachtswoman with birthday message after Twitter call-out

‘Anyone know any way I can get in touch with Russell Crowe? THE Russell Crowe?’ asked BBC radio host

Russell Crowe surprised a yachtswoman currently sailing the world with a birthday message, having been prompted by a BBC radio host.

Crowe sent the heartwarming message to sailor Pip Hare after being alerted to her round-the-world trip via Twitter.

Steve Harris, the host of BBC Radio Solent’s Dorset breakfast show, pondered on the social media platform if he could get in touch with Crowe. He tweeted on Wednesday (3 February): “Long shot... anyone know any way I can get in touch with Russell Crowe? THE Russell Crowe?!”

Less than 30 minutes later, Crowe responded, tweeting at Harris: “What’s up Steve?”

After Harris informed Crowe that Hare was a massive fan of the Gladiator star, and that she was currently sailing the world as part of the Vendee Globe race, the actor posted his own video message in celebration of her forthcoming birthday.

Read more: Russell Crowe defends ‘brilliant’ Master and Commander from criticism on Twitter

In it, Crowe said: “I hear you’re sailing around the globe. I’m just sitting here thinking about the incredible challenge in front of you and how overwhelming it must feel some days, but just keep going!”

Crowe also joked that he had recently been on a similar journey to Hare, as he’d just been kayaking.

“What an amazing feeling you’re going to have when you can say you have claimed the globe,” Crowe added. “Happy birthday Pip, sail well.”

In her own video response, Hare said she was overjoyed by Crowe’s gift.

“Thank you so much for my birthday message,” Hare said. “You have no idea what a surprise it was and how great it was to receive it. I have been on my own for 87 days.”

Hare, who turns 47 on Sunday, is currently sailing the Atlantic Ocean. She has more than 2,000 nautical miles to go before she reaches the finish line.

Last month, Crowe stood up for his 2003 film Master and Commander after a viral tweet claimed it is very effective as a sleep aid.