The “Titanic” Star Gushes Over Brando’s Iconic Looks While Playing Him in New Film
Billy Zane knows a thing or two about movie star good looks — and he says there’s one man who reigns supreme when it comes to Hollywood heartthrobs: the late, great Marlon Brando.
TMZ caught up with the Titanic alum Thursday at LAX, where he opened up about his latest role in the upcoming biopic Waltzing with Brando. And not only did Zane call the filming experience a blast — he revealed he couldn’t resist swiping a few items from the set for himself!
Brando’s Style? Too Good to Leave Behind
Zane lit up when asked about stepping into the shoes (and suits) of the legendary actor.
“I took some wardrobe pieces home. Couldn’t help myself,” he admitted with a grin.
Clearly, channeling Brando meant more than just learning his voice and mannerisms — it meant embracing his timeless swagger too.
“What a Mug”: Zane Ranks Brando at the Top
When asked who he thinks is the best-looking leading man of all time, Billy didn’t hesitate.
“Marlon Brando. What a mug,” he said, reflecting on the Godfather icon’s unforgettable face and legacy.
It’s a strong endorsement — and, maybe, a cheeky nod to himself. After all, Zane is literally playing Brando on screen in the upcoming biopic, and the resemblance is so uncanny, one outlet even mistook a promo shot of Billy for the two-time Oscar winner.
“They put up a pic of me instead of him,” he laughed. “That’s when you know you nailed it.”
A Bit of Brando in Billy?
Let’s be honest: Billy Zane’s got that old-school leading man energy. Sharp jawline? Check. Classic charm? Double check. He’s been turning heads since Dead Calm and The Phantom, and of course, who could forget his slick villain turn as Cal Hockley in Titanic?
Now, with Waltzing with Brando, Zane might just be about to earn himself a brand-new spot on Hollywood’s all-time handsome list — right alongside the man he’s portraying.
What’s Waltzing with Brando About?
The film, slated to hit theaters September 19, is based on a little-known chapter of Brando’s life in the late 1960s — when he teamed up with architect Bernard Judge to build an eco-friendly utopia in Tahiti.
Zane stars as Brando, capturing the megastar during a time of transition, soul-searching, and bold dreams. The role is far from your typical biopic — it’s intimate, tropical, and deeply character-driven.
And by all accounts, Zane is bringing his A-game.
A Dad First, Star Second
The conversation with Billy was cut short — but for a very sweet reason. He had to take a phone call from his daughter and catch his flight. But not before leaving us with one last juicy quote.
When asked why his name isn’t thrown into the same Hollywood heartthrob convo as Brando, Newman, or Redford, Zane just smirked:
“Maybe Waltzing with Brando will change that.”
Could This Be Zane’s Comeback Moment?
The buzz is already building. With Zane portraying one of the most iconic actors of all time, the fall release of Waltzing with Brando could become a defining moment in his career.
And maybe — just maybe — it’s time we put Billy Zane’s name on the list of all-time greats.
Handsome? Absolutely. Underrated? Definitely. Ready for a Hollywood resurgence? No question.
Are you excited to see Billy Zane take on Brando?
Drop your thoughts in the comments and keep it locked on The Pop Radar for the latest on this upcoming biopic, red carpet buzz, and star-powered drama.
