Kevin O’Leary is proudly embracing his provocative persona this holiday season in a unique way. The Canadian entrepreneur, TV personality, and associate of former President Trump is making an unexpected appearance in the new movie Marty Supreme.
Known for his roles on CBC’s Dragons’ Den and the American version Shark Tank, O’Leary, also dubbed “Mr. Wonderful,” is renowned for his straightforward on-screen demeanor. Embracing the controversial image, he humorously acknowledged that the “a-hole” tag is starting to work in his favor as he promotes Marty Supreme.
Surprising many, O’Leary’s inclusion in Josh Safdie’s film alongside A-listers like Timothée Chalamet and Gwyneth Paltrow has raised eyebrows among film critics and O’Leary’s detractors. Despite the skepticism, Safdie defended the casting choice, highlighting the need for an actor who could embody the essence of the ruthless American dream, a role that O’Leary apparently nailed during the script read-through.
Marty Supreme follows the story of Marty Mauser, played by Chalamet, an aspiring table tennis player in the 1950s. O’Leary portrays Milton Rockwell, a wealthy figure intrigued by Marty’s talent. While some critics like Di Golding question the casting decision, others, such as Cat Zhang from The Cut, see O’Leary’s portrayal as a success, capturing his trademark traits of political insensitivity and corporate ambition.
The film itself has garnered positive reviews, boasting a 95% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes and emerging as a strong contender for multiple Academy Award nominations. Studio A24 is even pushing O’Leary for consideration in the best supporting actor category.
In interviews with various media outlets, O’Leary clarified that the filmmakers deliberately sought a “real asshole” for the role, a descriptor he has somewhat embraced. However, public opinion remains divided on O’Leary, with some labeling him as evil or a traitor, reflecting the polarizing effect he has had on Canadians, particularly due to his affiliations with Trump and controversial statements on various issues.
While his presence in Marty Supreme has sparked debate, O’Leary’s provocative nature and unapologetic persona continue to fuel discussions both on and off the screen.