Russell Crowe pays tribute to Kings Cross identity Aunt Rosie as she dies aged 61: ‘She was a beautiful soul, her hugs were deep and warm’
Russell Crowe has sent heartfelt thanks to beloved aunt Roslyn “Rosie” Whittaker, who lives in Kings Cross, after her death on Sunday aged 61.
Living on the streets of Potts Point for decades, Rosie was known to locals for her lively personality and friendliness.
Crowe, who lived in Kings Cross for many years, told The Daily Telegraph on Wednesday that Rosie’s death had a profound impact on him and his family.
Russell Crowe, 58, (pictured) has given heartfelt thanks to beloved aunt Roslyn “Rosie” Whittaker, of Kings Cross, after her death on Sunday aged 61
“Whenever I saw Rosie, I would give her a hug, slip her some cash and ask how she was,” he said.
The Gladiator star, 58, also recalled how Rosie would always ask about his children Charles, 18, and Tennyson, 16, whenever they met on the street.
“She was a lovely soul, her hugs were deep and warm. I’ll miss her,’ he said.
Crowe, who lived in Kings Cross for many years, told The Daily Telegraph on Wednesday that Rosie’s death had a profound impact on him and his family
Australian actor David Wenham, who also counted Rosie among his longtime friends, shared his fond memories in a video shared by homeless charity Wayside Chapel.
“Rosie was undoubtedly the most famous Potts Point resident of the last two decades,” said the Elvis star.
“Rosie often made me laugh, she confused me sometimes, she made me cry sometimes and she always made me think. Everyone has a Rosie story,” he added.
The Gladiator star, 58, also recalled how Rosie would always ask about his children Charles, 18, and Tennyson, 16, whenever they met on the street. Pictured: Crowe with his children in 2015
Although Rosie’s cause of death has not been confirmed, it is believed that she has been unwell for some time.
Wayside Chapel announced Rosie’s death in a lengthy Facebook post on Tuesday.
“Aunt Rosie was dearly loved by the Kings Cross community and has been a fixture at Wayside for many years,” the post reads
“She made us laugh, cry and think – sometimes all in the same day. Aunt Rosie was part of the stolen generation and had a lot to teach us, often giving us lessons about life on the street.’
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Australian actor David Wenham (pictured), who also counted Rosie among his longtime friends, shared his fond memories in a video shared by homeless charity Wayside Chapel