Image Source: Complex
In a light-hearted moment that recently resurfaced, Brad Pitt famously mistook Leonardo DiCaprio’s family for extras while filming Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.” This amusing anecdote sheds light on the camaraderie between the two actors and offers a fun glimpse into the film industry’s quirks.
During a recent discussion as part of receiving his recognition as TIME’s Entertainer of the Year, DiCaprio recounted the delightful incident where his father and stepmother were momentarily mistaken for Hollywood extras. Knowing both his parents’ distinctive appearances, he found the misjudgment particularly humorous.
What Happened on Set with Brad Pitt?
The incident took place while filming the 2019 film set in the nostalgic ambiance of the late 1960s and early 1970s. DiCaprio explained how he had invited his father, George DiCaprio, along with his stepmother, Peggy DiCaprio, to visit the set. Their unique attire, reflective of the time period, led Pitt to believe they were background actors.
- DiCaprio joked, “I know they look like they’re extras in this movie, but that’s really them.”
- His father, a former member of San Francisco’s underground art movement and stepmother, a Sikh, definitely had a style not typical of Hollywood.
As they were leaving a restaurant nearby, DiCaprio pointed out his parents to Pitt, who responded with disbelief. “That’s them,” DiCaprio insisted, but Pitt was skeptical, attributing their unusual appearance to that of typical extras from the film’s era.
DiCaprio’s Affectionate Retelling
DiCaprio shared that the laughter-filled moment was one he will “never forget.” He added that his father’s and stepmother’s unique styles indeed mirrored the artistic eccentricity of the 70s. The hilarity of the misunderstanding was enhanced by their genuine outfits, making Pitt’s blunder all the more amusing.
The story highlights not only the friendship between Pitt and DiCaprio but also adds a layer of charm to their experiences on set. DiCaprio’s father would later appear on screen in Paul Thomas Anderson’s “Licorice Pizza,” a film that similarly captures the essence of that vibrant period.
Reflecting on the Glorious 70s
The backdrop of their story is quite significant, tying back to the Manson Family cult era, a crucial plot point in “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.” The film’s nostalgic aesthetic brought back memories of a tumultuous time in American history, presenting an opportunity for actors and viewers to both reflect and critique.
Brad Pitt’s initial reaction to DiCaprio’s parents, while humorous, underscores the larger-than-life nature of Hollywood, where appearances can be deceiving. It’s a testament to DiCaprio’s affection for his family and the inside jokes that often arise among friends in the entertainment industry.
Conclusion: A Moment to Cherish
This incident is a perfect example of how stories from film sets can bring a lighter side to behind-the-scenes interactions. As DiCaprio continues to achieve accolades and success, his ability to recount such light-hearted yet telling moments with Brad Pitt only solidifies the bond they share as friends and colleagues in the dynamic world of cinema.
FAQs
What film were Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio working on together?
They were working on “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” directed by Quentin Tarantino.
Why did Brad Pitt mistake DiCaprio’s family for extras?
Pitt found DiCaprio’s father and stepmother’s unique attire reflective of typical film extras from the 1970s era the movie portrays.
What was DiCaprio’s father’s background?
Leonardo DiCaprio’s father, George DiCaprio, was part of the underground art movement in San Francisco in the 1960s and 70s.
How did DiCaprio feel about the mistake?
DiCaprio found the mistake humorous and memorable, highlighting the bond he shares with Pitt.
Did DiCaprio’s father ever act in film?
Yes, he appeared in Paul Thomas Anderson’s film “Licorice Pizza,” which is also set in the 1970s.
