Leonardo DiCaprio made his much-anticipated podcast debut on Wednesday, September 24, appearing on New Heights, the show hosted by NFL athletes Travis and Jason Kelce. This marked the first time the Oscar-winning actor participated in a podcast, captivating fans with his candid conversation alongside fellow actor Benicio del Toro.
The hour-long episode, recorded remotely, offered a rare glimpse into two famously private Hollywood figures as they discussed topics ranging from personal stories to their shared passion for sports. DiCaprio, who has traditionally maintained a low-profile media presence, opened up about his early days playing high school basketball and revealed the professional team he has loyally supported over the years.
Leonardo DiCaprio Reveals Almost Changing His Name for Hollywood
During the podcast, DiCaprio got candid about pressures early in his career to adopt a more marketable stage name. He recalled,
I finally got an agent. They said, ‘Your name is too ethnic.’ I go, ‘What do you mean? It’s Leonardo DiCaprio.’
The actor explained that his middle name, Wilhelm, inspired the agent’s suggestion of the name “Lenny Williams,” but this idea was quickly rejected.
DiCaprio shared a memorable family moment on the matter, saying that his father strongly opposed the change, stating,
Over my dead body.
He humorously recalled how his dad found the proposed name on a headshot and tore it apart, preserving the actor’s real name in the process.
Engaging Discussions on Sports and Style
The podcast’s tone shifted toward lighter subjects when the trio talked about flat-brim hats, with Benicio del Toro sharing his enthusiasm for vintage sports headwear. Del Toro, known for his easygoing humor, expressed fondness for the Kansas City Chiefs and mentioned owning a classic hat from the 1980s featuring their logo.
As their conversation unfolded, del Toro also teased the upcoming film One Battle After Another, describing it as a high-octane action drama set to attract attention. This connection added an exciting glimpse into the duo’s collaborative projects beyond the podcast, emphasizing their versatility as actors.
The hosts, Travis and Jason Kelce, who have built a strong reputation for blending sports culture with pop entertainment, expressed awe during the episode. Travis extended a sincere invitation to del Toro to join him at a future Kansas City Chiefs game, which the actor welcomed with enthusiasm, highlighting the camaraderie that developed during the interview.
Overall, Leonardo DiCaprio’s first podcast appearance is notable as it opens a new channel for the actor to engage with audiences beyond traditional media, revealing personal insights and interests in a fresh format. Fans and listeners now have something to anticipate from this unexpected crossover, potentially signaling more conversations and collaborations in the future.
