Kevin O’Leary is proudly embracing his controversial persona this holiday season in a surprising twist. The Canadian entrepreneur and television personality, known for his roles on shows like CBC’s “Dragons’ Den” and the U.S. version “Shark Tank,” is making waves in the film industry with his appearance in the new movie “Marty Supreme.”
Despite being recognized as “Mr. Wonderful,” O’Leary is leaning into his blunt and on-camera persona, joking that the “a-hole” label is starting to work in his favor. His unexpected casting in “Marty Supreme,” directed by Josh Safdie and featuring A-list actors like Timothée Chalamet and Gwyneth Paltrow, has raised eyebrows among both film critics and O’Leary’s critics.
The 71-year-old Montreal native rose to fame as a co-founder of the tech company SoftKey, later known as The Learning Company, which he sold for a substantial sum. O’Leary also gained prominence as a television host on various business programs and briefly ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party of Canada in 2017.
While O’Leary’s involvement in “Marty Supreme” may have surprised many, director Safdie defended the casting choice, citing the need for someone who could embody the essence of the character Milton Rockwell. Despite mixed reactions, some critics have praised O’Leary’s performance in the film, which has garnered positive reviews and is a contender for multiple awards.
O’Leary’s unapologetic and controversial nature has divided opinions, with some describing him as “evil” or a “traitor.” His association with former U.S. President Donald Trump and provocative statements on various issues have further fueled the debate surrounding his persona. Despite the controversies, O’Leary continues to make headlines, both for his business ventures and his outspoken views.
In interviews, O’Leary has addressed the casting choice, emphasizing that he is not an “a-hole” but rather someone who speaks his mind. While his role in “Marty Supreme” has sparked debate, O’Leary remains unapologetic about his persona and the impact it has had on his public image.
