Actor Hugh Jackman says he is thankful to Russell Crowe for leaving out on big roles, which he did later.

Jackman, 44, has worked with Crowe in movie Les Miserables, and says both actors have learned from each other. "We were good friends before. We knew each other a lot. And Russell has given me advice several times at key moments in my life that helped with my career. I also owe him because two of the biggest roles I've ever had in my life, he turned down - and suggested me for them," dailystar.co.uk quoted Jackman as saying.

Jackman will next be seen in The Wolverine, said to be the sixth instalment of the X-Men franchise. The first movie was directed by Bryan Singer in 2000 and the actor says Crowe was the first choice of director.

"On X-Men, he was Bryan Singer's first choice for Wolverine, and he mentioned me also for Australia. He really is incredibly smart, and generous. It was a joy to work with him."

The Wolverine is directed by James Mangold and is expected to release in July next year.