Margot Robbie, one of Hollywood’s brightest stars, rose to global popularity following her outstanding performance in the 2013 blockbuster “The Wolf of Wall Street”. In the role of Naomi Lapaglia, the spouse of Leonardo DiCaprio’s character Jordan Belfort, Robbie’s performance signified her rise to fame in the film industry.
Nonetheless, her ascent to popularity came with its share of personal challenges—a few of which were surprisingly near to her heart. In recent years, Robbie has provided exclusive insights into her experiences during the filming of the movie.
She talked about the challenges she encountered, particularly regarding some of the film’s more provocative scenes. The most unexpected disclosure came when she shared the tension in her relationship with one of her siblings following the film’s debut.
Directed by the iconic Martin Scorsese, “The Wolf of Wall Street” delivered a series of gripping moments. Despite the film receiving significant praise, the explicit content posed a challenge for Robbie, especially with her family planning to watch.
The movie’s content was challenging not only for her, but also for one of her brothers. The excitement around Robbie’s performance soared with the iconic nude scene where her character captivates DiCaprio’s Belfort.
It was a moment that required bravery for the emerging talent. Robbie has candidly expressed her concerns when she initially accepted the role.
“I’m not going to lie, I had a couple of shots of tequila before that scene because I was nervous – very, very nervous,” she confessed during a BAFTA: A Life In Pictures interview. What Robbie didn’t expect, however, was the fallout from her performance.
The impact on her family’s relationships would be particularly significant. As Margot Robbie’s career soared, her family struggled with their own unease seeing her in such explicit scenes.
During an appearance on the “Screen Time” podcast, Robbie shared an awkward experience she had while viewing the film with her family. She characterized it as simply “awkward.”
While her family backed her pursuit of acting, one sibling found it challenging to accept the bold themes involved. Robbie revealed that her brother was so shocked by what he witnessed on-screen that he was unable to communicate with her for three months.
“I can’t tell you how uncomfortable that was,” she explained. “One of my brothers didn’t speak to me for three months afterwards.”
This interruption in dialogue stemmed not from anger, but from a profound sense of disbelief. The jarring experience of witnessing his sister in such a revealing role compelled him to step back and gather his thoughts.
Robbie managed the situation with poise, recognizing her brother’s response. Nonetheless, it introduced a personal hurdle to an already pivotal time in her life.
The controversial moment that sparked this divide showcases Robbie in the role of Naomi Lapaglia, clad only in stockings and high heels. As Naomi seeks to influence her husband, Jordan Belfort, through allure, the camera highlights the character’s bold expression of sensuality.
Robbie, however, was acutely aware of the intensity of these scenes. Following the film’s release, Robbie revealed in interviews that director Martin Scorsese had presented her with an alternative option.
He proposed that she might consider wearing a robe to maintain her modesty. However, Robbie felt that maintaining the integrity of Naomi’s character took precedence.
In 2014, Robbie stated that Naomi’s essence lies in the fact that her body serves as her sole means of exchange in this world. “When Marty suggested that I could wear a robe, I firmly stated that she wouldn’t.”
(Paramount Movies)
Initially feeling uncertain about the nudity, Robbie ultimately concluded it was essential for the character’s authenticity. “I think nudity for the sake of nudity is shameful,” she stated.
“But if they’ve put it in just so that a girl gets her top off, then that’s disgusting.” Robbie’s dedication to the role highlighted her passion for her craft.
It also involved personal sacrifices—notably her brother’s response. Despite the nude scene making a significant impact on him, Robbie has handled the situation with composure.
Following her performance in “The Wolf of Wall Street”, she has seen a remarkable rise in her career, taking on roles in “Suicide Squad”, “Birds of Prey”, and “I, Tonya”. With every performance, Robbie consistently demonstrates her status as one of the most adaptable actors of her generation.
Robbie has acknowledged how overwhelming the shift to success was in her reflections on her ascent to recognition. She remembered expressing to her mother in those initial moments that she was uncertain about her desire to remain in the limelight.
The star received a candid reply from her mother that served as a wake-up call. “Darling, I think it’s too late not to,” her mother had said.
Her family has gradually found their footing over time. Robbie’s brother ultimately came to terms with his emotions after viewing the film, although it required him a lengthy three months to fully digest the experience.
The support from family, which might have faced some challenges, has now returned to a stable state. Robbie’s ongoing achievements and down-to-earth nature are clearly evident.
Margot Robbie’s journey with “The Wolf of Wall Street” goes beyond merely shaping her career. It’s also about the individual path that led her to explore.
Her portrayal of Naomi Lapaglia garnered significant praise, yet it also brought forth distinct obstacles. Her brother’s surprising response to her daring scenes was just one of those moments.
Despite the challenges, Robbie’s dedication to her artistry and her ability to handle obstacles with poise shine through. Her determination and dedication as an actress remain truly remarkable.
Her experience teaches us that, even in the glamorous world of Hollywood, human relationships are important. And sometimes the true tales unfold behind the scenes, in ways that the public rarely sees.
Feature Image Credit: (Paramount Movies) (Instagram/ @margotteliserobbie)
