Publicist Quits on Russell Crowe

(BANG) - Russell Crowe has been dumped by his publicist.

The actor - famed for his short temper and aggressive outbursts - was "let go" by highly respected public relations guru Robin Baum and must now rely on his acting agency, William Morris and Co, to handle his publicity.

Crowe is considered to be somewhat of a PR liability because of his fiery reputation.

Crowe reportedly recently paid a visit to an emergency room in Sante Fe while filming his new movie "3.10 to Yuma," sparking speculation he may have been involved in yet another bust-up.

However a friend of the actor told the New York Post newspaper: "He wasn't there - the only medical thing Russell has dealt with is finding a local chiropractor."

Last year, the 42-year-old star pleaded guilty to third-degree assault for throwing a phone at a hotel clerk during his stay at New York's Mercer Hotel.

He lost his temper after he had trouble calling his wife, Danielle Spencer, in Australia from his room.
The "Gladiator" actor recently tried to excuse his temper by saying that violence is acceptable in Australia.

Crowe said: "Where I come from, a confrontation like that, as basic and simple as that, would have been satisfied with a handshake and an apology.

"The US legal system is very open to be misused.

"You got to have a temper. You know what happens when you don't have one? One day you're walking down the street and you just pop."