Crowe to feature in Neighbours special

Russell Crowe has taken a break from his multi-million dollar movie career - to star in a one-off special celebrating the 20th anniversary of Australian TV soap Neighbours.

The Gladiator actor appeared in an early episode of the long-running show in the late 1980s, playing the love interest of pop babe Kylie Minogue's character Charlene Mitchell.

And despite the fact his presence in Neighbours was only fleeting, Crowe agreed to feature in an upcoming TV show devoted to the show because he recognises its vital role in the development of his career.

The soap also gave stars including Guy Pearce, Jason Donovan, Natalie Imbruglia, Delta Goodrem and Holly Valance their first taste of fame.