Leonardo DiCaprio Says He Still Feels 'Emotionally in His 30s' as He Turns 50

Leonardo DiCaprio may have celebrated his 50th birthday, but the acclaimed actor says he still feels decades younger — emotionally in his 30s — and is embracing a new chapter in life with a sharper focus on honesty, purpose, and making the most of his time.

In a recent feature for Esquire's "Mavericks of Hollywood" issue, DiCaprio reflected on how reaching this stage in life has shifted his perspective. He described feeling more grounded, intentional, and unwilling to spend time on things — or relationships — that no longer align with his values.

During the interview, conducted by his "One Battle After Another" director Paul Thomas Anderson, Anderson asked him, "If you didn't know how old you are, how old are you right now?" DiCaprio immediately answered, "Thirty-two," later explaining that he feels "emotionally 35."

Asked whether turning 50 last year had prompted him to think more deeply about his life, DiCaprio admitted, "Well, it creates a feeling like you have a desire to just be more honest and not waste your time." He said he can "only imagine how the next few decades are going to progress."

DiCaprio credited his mother, Irmelin, as an influence on this mindset, calling her an example of authenticity. "She just says exactly what she thinks and wastes no time. She spends no time trying to fake it," he shared.

This approach, he explained, means "being more upfront and risking having things fall apart or risk the disagreements or risk going your separate ways from any type of relationship in life — the personal, professional." Ultimately, DiCaprio said, "you just don't want to waste your time anymore."

At 50, DiCaprio has amassed an Academy Award, multiple acclaimed performances, and a reputation as one of Hollywood's most bankable stars — and, judging by his mindset, he's far from done adding to that list.