Hugh Jackman has painted a glowing picture of his Les Miserables co-star Russell Crowe, describing their on-screen adventure as "one of the great privileges". 

The Australian pair sealed a close friendship during filming for the movie musical, with Crowe often inviting Jackman and fellow cast members back to his house for an afterhours singalong.

Appearing on Nine's Today show on Thursday, Jackman defended Crowe from his occasional bad-boy reputation and praised the Oscar winner for his good qualities.

"He is unbelievably generous and most of his generosity as he likes it goes unnoticed," Jackman said.

"He is one of those men who if he does get a bad rep does not deserve it in any way shape or form.

"I have nothing but admiration for the guy."

It's been a big couple of weeks for Jackman, which has seen him nominated for Golden Globes, Screen Actors Guild and London Critics' Circle Film awards.

Earlier this month the 44-year-old cemented his place in motion picture history with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

As well the Sydney-born actor was feted for his movie and stage successes at the 27th annual Museum of the Moving Image at a special tribute in New York.

The actor said the reaction to Les Misérables, which has its Australian premiere in Sydney on Friday, is a welcome relief following the hard work that went in.

"It was definitely the most intense thing I've ever done," he said.

"Obviously it's a big story and one of the most famous characters and it's like playing Hamlet in musical theatre terms. There's no easy scene."

Les Misérables opens in Australian cinemas on Boxing Day.

 

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