Kayaking actor rescued by Coast Guard in New York

MELVILLE, N.Y. -- Oscar-winning actor Russell Crowe lost his way kayaking in Huntington Bay off Long Island and was rescued by a U.S. Coast Guard boat, officials said Sunday night.

"He just needed a little bit of a lift. He got a little bit lost," said Coast Guard Petty Officer Robert Swieciki, who aided the rescue Saturday.

"When the sun went down, he didn't know where he was."

Best known for his lead role in "Gladiator," Crowe is filming the biblical-themed "Noah" in nearby Upper Brookville. He and a friend launched kayaks from Cold Spring Harbor Saturday afternoon and were at Lloyd Neck when they saw the Coast Guard boat about 10 p.m., Swieciki said. "He shouted at us from the beach, and he paddled up to us," Swieciki said. "We took him to Huntington."

Crowe wasn't hurt and was wearing a life vest, the officer said, adding, "He seemed pretty knowledgeable" about kayaking. Swieciki called the actor "pretty friendly." Crowe tweeted about the Coast Guard Sunday, thanking them "for guiding the way."