Leonardo DiCaprio turns 52: lesser-known facts about the Hollywood star

Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio is celebrating his 52nd birthday today. For more than three decades he has been one of the most recognizable and highly regarded actors in Hollywood, with a filmography that includes several works now considered cinema classics.

A varied career

DiCaprio's film roles span a wide range of characters, from the young romantic lead Jack in "Titanic" to the controversial financier Jordan Belfort in Martin Scorsese's "The Wolf of Wall Street." He finally won an Oscar for his physically demanding role in "The Revenant." Beyond acting, he has spent years actively engaging with environmental and climate issues, supporting nature conservation initiatives and taking part in documentary filmmaking.

Lesser-known stories

Behind the world-famous name lies a series of less commonly mentioned episodes. DiCaprio was once advised to change his name, and he reportedly came close to turning down the role in "Titanic," which later became one of his most famous films. He had to wait more than 20 years before finally receiving an Oscar. Meanwhile, his private life has repeatedly become a recurring source of internet jokes over the years.

On the occasion of his birthday, these lesser-known facts are being highlighted about one of Hollywood's most famous actors.