Kevin O’Leary is proudly embracing his “asshole” persona this holiday season, but in a surprising twist. The Canadian entrepreneur, turned television personality and ally of Donald Trump, has landed a role in the new movie “Marty Supreme,” in what has raised eyebrows within the entertainment industry.
O’Leary is most recognized for his appearances on CBC’s “Dragons’ Den” and the American version “Shark Tank.” Despite being nicknamed Mr. Wonderful, it’s his candid and straightforward demeanor that sets him apart. Embracing the controversial label, O’Leary joked to Vanity Fair that it’s actually working in his favor.
The casting of O’Leary alongside A-listers Timothée Chalamet and Gwyneth Paltrow in “Marty Supreme” has left many film critics and O’Leary’s detractors puzzled. Some have questioned the decision to include him in the movie, with one Canadian Reddit user expressing disappointment in a thread titled “Is anyone else bummed out about Kevin O’Leary being in Marty Supreme?”
O’Leary, a Montreal native, achieved success in the business world by co-founding the tech company SoftKey, later selling it to Mattel for a substantial sum. He also ventured into television as a host of various business programs such as “The Lang & O’Leary Exchange,” “Dragons’ Den,” and “Shark Tank.”
Despite a brief stint as a candidate for the leadership of the Conservative Party of Canada in 2017, O’Leary’s notoriety soared due to a 2019 boating accident in Ontario that resulted in fatalities and legal proceedings involving his wife, Linda O’Leary.
In “Marty Supreme,” O’Leary portrays Milton Rockwell, a wealthy figure who takes an interest in Chalamet’s character. Director Josh Safdie defended the casting choice, emphasizing the need for someone who could embody the essence of corporate greed and ruthless ambition, qualities that O’Leary apparently delivered.
While opinions on O’Leary’s involvement in the film remain divided, “Marty Supreme” has garnered positive reviews, boasting a 95% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The movie is also generating buzz for potential Academy Award nominations, with studio A24 pushing for O’Leary to be considered for Best Supporting Actor.
O’Leary himself has acknowledged the intention behind his casting, stating in interviews that the filmmakers sought a genuine “asshole” for the role. Despite controversy surrounding his persona and past statements, O’Leary remains unapologetic, claiming that he speaks the truth even if it may not always be well-received.
With a reputation for his confrontational style and controversial remarks, O’Leary continues to be a polarizing figure in both business and entertainment circles. His presence in “Marty Supreme” has sparked discussions on the boundaries between art and persona, leaving audiences intrigued and divided.