FBI Probing Alleged Plot to Kidnap Actor Crowe

The FBI said Tuesday that it is investigating a plot to kidnap Russell Crowe, the New Zealand-born actor recently nominated for an Oscar for his starring role in “Gladiator.”

No details of the alleged plot were given. But the FBI thought the evidence credible and serious enough to bring it to Crowe’s attention, and to accompany him--undercover--to the Golden Globe Awards on Jan. 21.

“We were at the Golden Globes in tuxedos, conducting the investigation,” said an FBI spokesman, Special Agent Matthew McLaughlin. “And we continue to investigate, coordinating closely with Mr. Crowe’s people and with Scotland Yard.”

British law enforcement is involved because Crowe traveled to London last week for the European premiere of his latest film, “Proof of Life.”

McLaughlin said that the FBI learned about the alleged plot before the Golden Globes ceremony and that agents have interviewed Crowe to see who might want to kidnap him. The investigation is continuing, and McLaughlin would not say whether authorities have identified any potential suspects.

Crowe’s publicist, Robin Baum, said that she was aware of the alleged plot and that the actor has taken security precautions.

The FBI usually does not discuss ongoing investigations, particularly kidnapping plots, but did so in this case because of recent media reports.

FBI officials declined to say whether Crowe had received FBI protection since the January award ceremony.

Crowe’s nomination for best actor in the upcoming Academy Awards is for his performance as a Roman general who is enslaved as a gladiator and fights to avenge the murder of his wife and son.