Published • loading... • Updated
Who Is 'Lenny Williams'? Leonardo DiCaprio Reveals Stage Name His Agent Wanted
- Leonardo DiCaprio appeared on the New Heights podcast on September 24, 2025, where he revealed being advised to change his name early in his career.
- This advice stemmed from an early agent telling DiCaprio his name was 'too ethnic' and suggesting he adopt the stage name Lenny Williams.
- DiCaprio recalled his father George DiCaprio strongly opposing the change, ripping up the headshot and saying, 'Over my dead body.'
- Now 50 years old and starring in the 2025 film One Battle After Another, the actor recalled his early experiences with auditions from childhood.
- Sticking to his given name helped DiCaprio become a major Hollywood star, suggesting that his original name contributed to his lasting success.
Insights by Ground AI
63 Articles
63 Articles
Who is 'Lenny Williams'? Leonardo DiCaprio reveals stage name his agent wanted
(KTLA) -- Leonardo DiCaprio has been one of Hollywood's most recognizable names for decades — but in another world, we might've never known Leo as Leo. Ahead of the release of his latest film, Paul Thomas Anderson's "One Battle After Another," the 50 year-old Academy Award winner sat down with Travis Kelce and Jason Kelce for their "New Heights" podcast. During the conversation, alongside co-star Benicio del Toro, DiCaprio talked about his caree…
·Chicago, United States
Read Full ArticleLeonardo DiCaprio says his first agent thought he'd never get hired in Hollywood because his name was 'too ethnic': 'Your name is Lenny Williams'
DiCaprio's "One Battle After Another" co-star, Benicio Del Toro, said he received similar advice from his agent—to become “Benny Del.”
·New York, United States
Read Full ArticleCoverage Details
Total News Sources63
Leaning Left17Leaning Right7Center13Last UpdatedBias Distribution46% Left
Bias Distribution
- 46% of the sources lean Left
46% Left
L 46%
C 35%
R 19%
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium