The Return of a Peculiar Artifact
John Oliver, host of HBO’s “Last Week Tonight with John Oliver,” has reacquired a notable piece of celebrity memorabilia: Russell Crowe‘s jock strap. This item first gained public attention in 2018 when Oliver purchased it during Crowe’s “Art of Divorce Auction.” The jock strap’s reappearance marks another chapter in its unusual history.
The original acquisition was a significant event, with Oliver spending A$7,000 (approximately US$7,000 at the time) for the item. This purchase was part of a larger collection of Crowe’s personal effects, which Oliver then donated to the last Blockbuster Video store located in Anchorage, Alaska. The donation was a gesture aimed at supporting the struggling video rental chain.
A Journey Through Memorabilia and Media
Russell Crowe’s “Art of Divorce Auction” in 2018 was a highly publicized event. It featured over 200 items from the actor’s personal collection, including movie props, art, and personal effects. Oliver’s purchase of the jock strap, along with other items like a leather vest and a robe, was a prominent segment on “Last Week Tonight.”
The subsequent donation to the Anchorage Blockbuster Video store provided a temporary boost in publicity for the struggling franchise. The store became a minor tourist attraction, housing these unique celebrity artifacts. However, the Anchorage Blockbuster Video stores have since closed their doors, leading to the jock strap’s return to Oliver’s possession.
Oliver’s Expanding Media Presence
Beyond his role on “Last Week Tonight,” John Oliver has recently expanded his acting portfolio. In the summer of 2026, he made guest appearances in the long-running soap operas “General Hospital” and “Days of Our Lives.” These roles demonstrate Oliver’s versatility and his continued presence across various media platforms.
His satirical news program, “Last Week Tonight,” continues to be a critical success, known for its in-depth investigations and humorous takes on current events. The show often features segments that involve unusual celebrity interactions or acquisitions, such as the Russell Crowe jock strap.
Crowe’s Continued Cinematic Endeavors
Russell Crowe, the original owner of the jock strap, remains active in the film industry. He has recently finished filming his role in the remake of “Highlander,” a project that has garnered significant attention. Crowe has a busy schedule with several other upcoming movie projects on his slate.
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These projects include “The Last Druid,” “Billion Dollar Spy,” and “Arc of Justice.” The film “Harker” was announced in 2012 with Russell Crowe rumored to star, but there is no recent information confirming his current involvement or the project’s active status. Crowe’s diverse roles continue to solidify his status as a prominent figure in Hollywood. His personal life, including the 2018 divorce auction, has often intersected with his public persona, creating unique narratives around his possessions.
The End of an Era for Blockbuster
The closure of the Anchorage Blockbuster Video store signifies the final chapter for the once-dominant video rental chain. At its peak, Blockbuster operated thousands of stores worldwide, but changing consumer habits and the rise of streaming services led to its decline. The store in Anchorage was one of the last remaining Blockbusters in the world, a symbol of a bygone era in home entertainment.
The jock strap’s journey from a celebrity auction to a video rental store, and now back to Oliver, serves as a peculiar footnote in the history of both celebrity culture and the evolution of media consumption. It underscores how seemingly trivial items can gain cultural significance through their association with public figures and historical moments.
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