
Christopher Briney and Leonardo DiCaprio's Uncanny Similarities, Explained
Christopher Briney's rise in Hollywood has sparked comparisons to a young Leonardo DiCaprio, with fans pointing out both his striking looks and his on-screen intensity.
Christopher Briney has quickly risen to stardom thanks to his breakout role as Conrad in Prime Video's "The Summer I Turned Pretty."
The 27-year-old actor, who grew up in Connecticut, originally spent his free time shooting hoops and biking through his hometown before discovering a love for acting in middle school. That spark led him to the Waterbury Arts Magnet School, where an acting class cemented his passion.
Determined to turn it into a career, Briney studied at Pace University in New York, graduating in 2020 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting for Film, Television, Voiceover, and Commercial work.
During his college years, he gained stage experience, including playing the title role in "Hamlet" for Shakespeare Productions, and honed his skills behind the camera with short films like "Paix," where he served as writer, director, cinematographer, and editor.
While theater and independent projects helped shape his craft, it was "The Summer I Turned Pretty" that made Briney a household name. He has also branched out into film, appearing in "Daliland" and the 2024 "Mean Girls" musical remake.

Christopher Briney attends "The Summer I Turned Pretty" Season Three Launch Party on July 16, 2025 in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
But beyond his résumé, what has fueled much of the online conversation around Briney is his striking resemblance to a young Leonardo DiCaprio. Fans have drawn parallels between the two actors for their piercing eyes, effortless hair, and the kind of subtle, half-formed smile that leaves audiences swooning.
The comparisons go deeper than looks, though — with Briney's screen presence and emotional range echoing DiCaprio's early career.

Leonardo DiCaprio attends the Westwood premiere of “The Basketball Diaries” at the Mann Festival Theatre in the Westwood neighbourhood of Los Angeles, California on April 19, 1995. | Source: Getty Images
One moment in particular has brought this likeness into sharper focus. In September, Prime Video confirmed that a bathtub scene between Briney's Conrad and Lola Tung's Belly in "The Summer I Turned Pretty" season three was intentionally designed as a homage to DiCaprio's legendary role in "Titanic."
The callback mirrors Jack's sketching scene with Rose, a cinematic touchstone that cemented DiCaprio as a generational heartthrob.
Separated by nearly three decades, both scenes capture young men teetering on the edge of confession and vulnerability, which resonates with fans. The visual and emotional echoes not only pay tribute to DiCaprio's legacy but also highlight Briney's ability to deliver the same kind of swoon-worthy intensity.

Leonardo DiCaprio poses for a photo in 1995 in New York City, New York. | Source: Getty Images
For many viewers, the parallel is undeniable. Whether it's the "Titanic" nod or memories of DiCaprio in "Romeo + Juliet," Christopher Briney is carving out his own career while reminding audiences of one of Hollywood's most iconic leading men.