Russell Crowe got Hugh Jackman the role of Wolverine.

The 'Noah' star was initially targeted to portray the 'X-Men' character, but when he turned down the film, he suggested producer Bryan Singer spoke to the 'Real Steel' star instead.

He explained to the Grill Team on Australian radio station Triple M 104.9FM: ''Bryan Singer asked Rusty to do Wolverine, and he said, 'Nah mate I've just done 'Gladiator', it's not for me but you should look at this guy...' ''

Hugh is a big fan of Russell, both personally and professionally, and says he has learned a lot from his friend.

He said: ''He's a great guy in every way, I have so much time for him and to watch him work, everyone says he is a great actor, when you actually get to work with someone like that... He's that good when it matters, in that moment, in that close up tough moment, you just sit back and watch you know someone's got that confidence and is going to deliver. I learnt a lot from him.''

Hugh will next appear in James Mangold's sixth instalment of the 'X-Men' franchise, 'The Wolverine', in July 2013.