Leonardo DiCaprio is 50 years old today, while a professional career spanning almost three decades marked another milestone. From a promising young actor to one of the most respected stars in Hollywood, DiCaprio has etched a cinematic legacy that serves as an inspiration to many. A man noted for taking on a variety of roles that have tested both his talent and physical limits, Leonardo DiCaprio impresses the audience with his different performances in boundary-pushing films.
Let’s celebrate the big five-zero of this ultimate star with a retro of some of his most iconic films, career achievements, and how he evolved into the actor we know today.
1. Titanic (1997)
DiCaprio broke into leading-man status with James Cameron in Titanic, as Jack Dawson, the doomed lover. The movie became an international sensation, as did DiCaprio. The record-breaking box office results and 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, made Titanic a turning point for DiCaprio and ensured its place in Hollywood history.
2. The Aviator
In Martin Scorsese’s The Aviator, DiCaprio played the role of the troubled aviation mogul Howard Hughes. This was arguably his most deeply rooted performance, which finally freed him from the heartthrob image as an actor who could carry a movie with complex characters. He received a Golden Globe for Best Actor for this movie, which proved to be an important turning point in his career.
3. Inception (2010)
In 2010, Christopher Nolan’s Inception took DiCaprio’s performance to the next level. He played Dom Cobb, a talented thief who inserts himself into people’s dreams. DiCaprio gave one of his deepest emotional performances. Commercially and critically, the success of this film cemented DiCaprio as a master not only of action but also of drama.
4. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
In The Wolf of Wall Street, DiCaprio again teamed up with Scorsese to portray corrupt stockbroker Jordan Belfort. His manic energy and sharp wit added a charismatic layer to a morally questionable character and was largely considered an explosive performance.
5. The Revenant – 2015
Finally, DiCaprio’s visceral performance as a frontiersman, Hugh Glass. In The Revenant finally brought home his first Academy Award for Best Actor. Long considered overdue, the victory was a testament to the hard work and tireless dedication he’d demonstrated thus far in his career.
6. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)
In Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, DiCaprio played Rick Dalton, a fading TV star. A showcase for his comedic talents that was every bit as effective as his dramatic ones. It brought him yet another Academy Award nomination.
But besides acting, DiCaprio has become known for his environmental activism. His Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation preaches climate change awareness and the protection of wildlife. As he celebrates his 50th birthday, DiCaprio’s journey is far from over with several exciting projects on the horizon.
ANI