Leonardo DiCaprio’s First On-Screen Kiss Wasn’t Titanic, It Was with a Man

Before he became famous for his roles opposite Kate Winslet, Leonardo DiCaprio shared his first on-screen kiss with a man. According to Nicki Swift, DiCaprio’s first cinematic kiss was with David Thewlis, known for his role in the Harry Potter series.

The moment happened in the 1995 film Total Eclipse, where DiCaprio played French poet Arthur Rimbaud.

Thewlis portrayed Paul Verlaine, an older, married poet. The film explored the passionate and often turbulent romance between the two literary figures, showing both love and conflict.

Their relationship created some of the most powerful poetry of their time, but it also highlighted the challenges they faced due to societal judgment in the 19th century. Verlaine’s marriage fell apart, and both men had to deal with the backlash of a relationship seen as scandalous.

DiCaprio has spoken about how kissing men on screen was challenging for him. In a 1995 interview with Movieline, he said, “I don’t have a problem with doing a film about a relationship of love with another man. That’s just acting, you know what I mean? But as far as the kissing stuff, that’s really hard for me, I’m not kidding. But I’ve faced the fact that I’m gonna have to do it, and I’m gonna do it because I supposedly loved the guy.”

Years later, DiCaprio seemed more comfortable with on-screen intimacy, describing it as part of the job. He told The Mirror in 2012, “These are the things we do as actors — I was in character.” He added that the preparation for certain scenes, including those with intense physicality, was clearly directed.

Total Eclipse remains a notable early role in DiCaprio’s career, showing his willingness to take on complex and challenging characters.

It’s impressive to see how DiCaprio tackled such a daring role so early in his career. It shows dedication and range, which likely helped him grow into the versatile actor he is today.

What do you think about actors taking on challenging roles like this? Share your thoughts in the comments.