Leonardo DiCaprio has opened up about his survival strategy in the unpredictable arena of Hollywood, emphasizing the importance of knowing when to remain in the background rather than seek the spotlight. In a candid interview with TIME magazine, where he was named entertainer of the year, DiCaprio shared insights that may be unexpected in an era dominated by constant digital connectivity and viral moments.
Reflecting on his journey, DiCaprio stated, “It’s been a balance I’ve been managing my whole adult life, and still I’m not an expert.” He distilled his philosophy into a straightforward approach: engage with the public only when he has something significant to contribute, otherwise, he prefers to keep a low profile. “Otherwise, just disappear as much as you possibly can,” he advised.
DiCaprio’s ascent to fame began with his memorable role in the blockbuster “Titanic,” where he starred alongside Kate Winslet. The sudden surge in fame was both exhilarating and daunting for the then-very young actor. “I was like, OK, how do I have a long career? Because I love what I do, and I feel like the best way to have a long career is to get out of people’s face,” he explained, underlining the importance of maintaining privacy in his personal life.
Additionally, DiCaprio expressed concern for aspiring actors regarding the risk of overexposure. In a discussion with Deadline, he elaborated on his early career choices, highlighting how he frequently turned down lucrative offers. “If you love this profession, you have to realize that it’s a marathon, it’s not a sprint,” he said, reinforcing the notion that building a sustainable career requires a long-term perspective. He advised young actors to think about 20, 30, or even 50 years down the line when making decisions about their roles.
He pointed out how the landscape of acting has evolved with the rise of social media, which often demands immediate gratification through frequent appearances and constant engagement. However, he found inspiration in watching seasoned actors who took the time to cultivate a deep and varied body of work over many years. “I wasn’t inundated with a massive explosion of too many films by them in one or two years,” DiCaprio recalled, emphasizing the value of patience in nurturing one’s career.
DiCaprio’s decision-making process in selecting roles has also been influenced by his understanding of character dynamics in films. He advised young talents to focus on projects that feature compelling supporting roles, as they can significantly enhance one’s standing in the industry.
His choice to accept a role in “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape,” which earned him his first Oscar nomination over a more financially enticing opportunity in “Hocus Pocus,” marked a critical juncture in his career. Following the monumental success of “Titanic,” DiCaprio found himself with the freedom to choose projects that resonated with him personally, rather than feeling pressured to chase after box office hits.
Through his experiences and reflections, Leonardo DiCaprio continues to advocate for a thoughtful approach to fame and success in the film industry, underscoring that sometimes less is indeed more.
