Footy fans that have swarmed on Brisbane for the NRL Magic Round had an unexpected brush with Hollywood on Saturday morning, as actor Owen Wilson was spotted strolling down the iconic Caxton Street.
Footy fans enjoying some early morning drinks were stunned to see the Wedding Crashers star casually walking by in a beige suit and white shoes.
‘Owen, Owen come for a beer,’ one excited fan shouted, capturing the moment on camera.
Wilson, seemingly in good spirits, pumped his fist in acknowledgement but kept moving down the street.
Cheers of ‘Yeah!’ and ‘WOW’ echoed from the nearby pub crowd as the actor disappeared down the street.
‘It’s surreal,’ said one fan. ‘You come for the footy and end up spotting Owen Wilson.’
Owen Wilson walks down the iconic Caxton Street in Brisbane, saluting his fans off to an early start for Magic Round
Footy fans from around Australia have descended on Brisbane for Magic Round which features every match of the round at one venue
The sighting marks Wilson’s latest public appearance in Brisbane while filming his upcoming action-thriller Runner.
Earlier in the week, he was seen at New Farm Park, where scenes for the movie were being filmed near the Hopetoun Way end of the grounds.
Locals observed cameras, production equipment and film crews setting up as Wilson relaxed on a park bench in a pink button-up shirt.
Rumours initially swirled online questioning whether the star had actually arrived, with some users speculating it was a clever fake.
But those doubts were laid to rest after multiple public sightings and verified social media footage confirmed his presence in Queensland.
Production of Runner, directed by Expendables 4 filmmaker Scott Waugh, began in Brisbane and the Gold Coast on March 31.
Wilson stars alongside Reacher actor Alan Ritchson in the big-budget action film.
The story follows courier Hank Malone [Ritchson], who must deliver a lifesaving organ to a critically ill seven-year-old girl.
Owen Wilson arrives in Australia for the filming of his new movie Runner in true Owen Wilson style
Reacher actor Alan Ritchson is spotted jogging on the Gold Coast during his time in Australia to film Runner
What begins as a high-stakes medical delivery quickly descends into chaos as dangerous forces intervene.
Wilson plays Ben, a fellow medical courier who is reluctantly swept into the deadly mission.
Unlike many international productions shot in Queensland, Runner will showcase Brisbane and the Gold Coast as themselves.
Footage posted online Saturday also showed large film crews and blackout screens in the streets of the CBD.
Some roads appeared shut to the public as filming got underway.
The production is expected to inject $20 million into the Queensland economy, with support from Screen Queensland’s Production Attraction Strategy.
Nearly 90 local jobs are set to be created through the project, benefiting both cast and crew.
Wilson’s unexpected appearances have added an extra layer of excitement to Brisbane’s already buzzing Magic Round.
Magic Round has been a huge success since its inception in 2019 and is another sell-out event this year
Caxton Street is the iconic entertainment district beside Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane with plenty of watering holes for thirsty footy fans
The NRL Magic Round is a three-day rugby league festival held annually at Suncorp Stadium.
Since its inception in 2019, Brisbane has become a hub for fans nationwide during the event.
All eight matches of the round are played at the one venue, with supporters travelling from across Australia to soak up the action.
The 2025 edition of Magic Round included a double-header on Friday and triple-headers on Saturday and Sunday.
Thursday night also hosted the opening game of the Women’s State of Origin series.
Beyond the games, the city transforms into a carnival of rugby league with fan zones, community events, and live entertainment.
Nowhere is this atmosphere more electric than along Caxton Street.
Located near Suncorp Stadium, Caxton Street is the heart of pre- and post-game celebrations in Brisbane.
During Magic Round, the street is lined with fans clad in jerseys, packing into pubs and restaurants.
Live music, chanting supporters, and vibrant energy have made it a key part of the rugby league experience in Queensland.
