HOLLYWOOD actor Russell Crowe has said he is 'stunned' after the Nobel Prize winning mathematician John Nash and his wife Alicia were killed in a car crash into the US.

Crowe, who played the Nobel Prize for Economics winner in the film A Beautiful Mind, paid tribute after learning that Mr and Mrs Nash had died after being thrown from a taxi in a collision in New Jersey.

He said: "My heart goes out to John & Alicia & family. An amazing partnership. Beautiful minds, beautiful hearts."

Mr Nash, 86, who won the prize in 1994, and his wife were travelling in a car that lost control and hit a barrier at 4.30pm on Saturday.

The University of Princeton academic was portrayed by Crowe in the 2001 Academy award-winning film which depicted his groundbreaking work in game theory as well as his struggle with schizophrenia.

Its President, Christopher L. Eisgruber said: "We are stunned and saddened by news of the untimely passing of John Nash and his wife and great champion, Alicia.

"Both of them were very special members of the Princeton University community.

""John's remarkable achievements inspired generations of mathematicians, economists and scientists who were influenced by his brilliant, groundbreaking work in game theory, and the story of his life with Alicia moved millions of readers and moviegoers who marvelled at their courage in the face of daunting challenges."

The Ron Howard film, which also starred Ed Harris and Jennifer Connelly, won four Oscars at he 2002 Academy Awards - an event attended by Mr and Mrs Nash.

They included best picture, best director and best supporting actress for Connelly's portrayal of Alicia