Russell Crowe wants to play Steve Irwin in a film based on the life of the ‘Crocodile Hunter’. The Oscar-winning Australian actor, who has repeatedly spoken of his affection for friend Steve after he was tragically killed, aged just 44, by a stingray, is in talks with Universal Studios about making a biopic.

Crowe, 42, is desperate to make the movie as he feels it would be a fitting tribute to the wildlife expert’s life. An insider told In Touch Weekly magazine: “It’s not about money for Russell — it’s about honouring his friend. Steve once told Russell that he wanted him to play him in a movie version of his life.”

A public memorial was held for father of two Steve on Wednesday. His eight-year-old daughter Bindi read out a tribute to her dad and a pre-recorded video message from Crowe was broadcast.

The Gladiator star said: “We’ve all lost a friend, we’ve lost a champion, and we’re going to take some time to adjust to that.” Other tributes came from Australian PM John Howard, Dances With Wolves star Kevin Costner and Cameron Diaz..