Leonardo DiCaprio recently spilled the beans on a side-splitting encounter from the set of Quentin Tarantino’s 2019 blockbuster, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. The actor revealed how co-star Brad Pitt hilariously mistook DiCaprio's father, George, and stepmother, Peggy, for film extras. This surprising slip-up was shared by DiCaprio during a video commemorating his recognition as TIME’s Entertainer of the Year last December.
This anecdote, which actor Margot Robbie was also present for, shines a light on the spontaneous and humorous dynamics behind the scenes of one of Hollywood’s most talked-about films.
“No, that’s them,” DiCaprio insisted, emphasizing his family’s distinctive style that could easily find a place in a 70s-themed movie.
DiCaprio provided some context about his eclectic family background, painting a vivid picture of why his father and stepmother might have been mistaken for extras. He explained that Peggy DiCaprio carries the rich heritage of Sikh culture, while George DiCaprio exudes the free-spirited aura of the 1970s hippie movement. Having immersed himself in the vibrant art scene of San Francisco and LA, George’s appearance and aura seemed a perfect fit for the film's setting, which revolves around the infamous 1970s Manson Family cult.
The humorous episode unfolded post a delicious meal at the legendary Musso & Frank Grill in Los Angeles. When DiCaprio pointed out his father and stepmother to Pitt, the Fight Club star initially laughed off the notion, believing their appearance was too authentic not to be part of the cast.
But this wasn't just a one-off case of mistaken identity; George DiCaprio's style and personality have given him a unique edge in Hollywood. Later, he snagged a role in Paul Thomas Anderson’s Licorice Pizza, set against the nostalgic backdrop of the 1970s. Anderson himself recalled how George perfectly embodied the character of a wig shop owner selling waterbeds – a role he had visualized precisely for him.
“I couldn’t put my finger on it,” Anderson remarked, reflecting on the moment inspiration struck, leading him to extend the offer to George, who was thrilled to join the project. It's another chapter in the fascinating journey of the DiCaprio family in the glimmering world of Hollywood.