"Tell them your favorite scene in the film, Renee. The kissing scene," the 46-year-old actor-director joked during a promotional stop in Greenville, where scenes for the movie were shot. "Talk about how much you liked the kissing scenes."

Zellweger and Clooney greeted several hundred screaming fans who snapped photos and fought the large crowd just to catch a glimpse of the Hollywood stars. The pair signed autographs, posed for pictures and accepted keys to the city.

"We were fairly aware of Greenville long before we showed up here," Clooney said. "We had a great time here and wanted to bring the film back before we go to open it in Los Angeles ... or anyplace else."

Zellweger said many extras in "Leatherheads," which was inspired by a 1920s football team, were among the fans.

"I think I recognized half of this crowd from the game sequence," the 38-year-old actress said.

"Leatherheads" opens April 4. Clooney plays an aging player on the Duluth Bulldogs while Zellweger plays a feisty Chicago newspaper reporter.

Clooney said he sent the script to Zellweger because he wanted to work with her.

The two stars were mum on future projects, and Clooney avoided a question about a possible return to NBC's "ER" in a guest appearance.

That didn't bother the star-struck crowd.

"This is exciting," said Taryn Kraimer, 25, who brought a purse from a local designer for Zellweger. "It's such a big deal. You just want to be a part of it. It's a once in a lifetime thing. And, well, who isn't a fan of George?"

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On the Net:

"Leatherheads":

http://www.leatherheadsmovie.com/