The life of Aristotle Onassis, the Greek shipping tycoon who famously married Jacqueline Kennedy, has been the subject of numerous films and TV dramas.
From the controversial book “Nemesis” to the upcoming Hollywood blockbuster, “The Godfather”-esque film, Onassis’ story continues to captivate audiences.
But who has played this iconic figure on screen?
Join us as we explore the actors who have portrayed Aristotle Onassis and the films that have brought his story to life.
Who Played Aristotle Onassis
One of the most notable actors to portray Aristotle Onassis was Anthony Quinn in the 1978 film “The Greek Tycoon”. Quinn’s performance as the Greek tycoon received mixed reviews, but the film itself was a commercial success.
In 2019, it was announced that Al Pacino would be playing Onassis in the upcoming film “Nemesis”. Pacino was chosen for his artistic qualities and facial resemblance to the Greek shipping magnate.
Raul Julia also played Onassis in the 1988 TV drama “The Richest Man in the World”. The drama was based on Peter Evans’ book “Nemesis” and focused on Onassis’ rivalry with Bobby Kennedy and his relationships with Maria Callas and Jacqueline Kennedy.
The Early Portrayals: Anthony Quinn And Raul Julia
Two notable actors who portrayed Aristotle Onassis in the past were Anthony Quinn and Raul Julia. Quinn played Onassis in the 1978 film “The Greek Tycoon”, which was a fictionalized account of Onassis’ life and his relationship with Jacqueline Kennedy. While Quinn’s performance received mixed reviews, the film itself was a commercial success.
Raul Julia, on the other hand, played Onassis in the 1988 TV drama “The Richest Man in the World”. The drama was based on Peter Evans’ book “Nemesis” and focused on Onassis’ early years in Argentina, his rivalry with Stavros Niarchos, his relationships with Maria Callas and Jacqueline Kennedy, and his strained relationship with Bobby Kennedy. Julia’s portrayal of Onassis was praised for its depth and complexity.
Both Quinn and Julia brought their own unique interpretations to the role of Aristotle Onassis. While Quinn’s portrayal was more focused on the tycoon’s relationship with Jacqueline Kennedy, Julia’s performance delved deeper into Onassis’ complex personality and relationships with those around him. Both performances have become iconic in their own right and have contributed to the ongoing fascination with the life of Aristotle Onassis.
The Controversial Adaptation: Nemesis
The upcoming film “Nemesis” has been met with controversy due to its subject matter and its portrayal of Aristotle Onassis. The film is based on the book “Nemesis: The True Story of Aristotle Onassis, Jackie O, and the Love Triangle That Brought Down the Kennedys” by Peter Evans, which alleges that Onassis was involved in the assassination of Bobby Kennedy.
The film’s director, Fernando Meirelles, has described “Nemesis” as being similar to “The Godfather”, with Onassis at the center of the story. The screenplay is being written by Braulio Mantovani and will star Al Pacino as Onassis and Michael Fassbender as Bobby Kennedy.
The book’s claims about Onassis’ involvement in Bobby Kennedy’s assassination have been met with skepticism and criticism. Some have accused Evans of sensationalism and lacking evidence to support his claims.
Despite the controversy, “Nemesis” is expected to be a major Hollywood production with a budget estimated at $30 million. It is set to be filmed on location in Greece, including the island of Skorpios, which was owned by Onassis. The film is expected to explore Onassis’ relationships with Maria Callas and Jacqueline Kennedy, as well as his rivalry with shipping magnate Stavros Niarchos.
The TV Drama: Onassis: The Richest Man In The World
“The Richest Man in the World” is a 1988 TV drama that chronicles the life of Aristotle Onassis, a Greek shipping tycoon who became one of the wealthiest men in the world. The drama focuses on Onassis’ private life, including his relationships with Maria Callas and Jacqueline Kennedy, as well as his rivalry with Bobby Kennedy.
Raul Julia plays the role of Aristotle Onassis, delivering a powerful and nuanced performance that captures the tycoon’s charisma and ruthlessness. The drama also features Elias Koteas as the young Aristotle Onassis, Jane Seymour as Maria Callas, and Francesca Annis as Jacqueline Kennedy.
Directed by Waris Hussein, “The Richest Man in the World” received critical acclaim for its portrayal of Onassis’ life and legacy. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of high-stakes business and politics, as well as the personal struggles and triumphs of one of the most complex and enigmatic figures of the 20th century.
The Upcoming Blockbuster: Ari
The highly anticipated new film “Nemesis” will feature Al Pacino as Aristotle Onassis, with Brazilian director Fernando Meirelles at the helm. Meirelles, known for his award-winning films “City of God” and “The Constant Gardener”, plans to present unknown moments from Onassis’ life, emphasizing his relationships with those around him and the price he paid for his sentimental relationships. The film’s screenplay will be adapted from Peter Evans’ book “Nemesis: The True Story of Aristotle Onassis, Jackie O, and the Love Triangle That Brought down the Kennedys”, which delves into Onassis’ early years in Argentina, his competition with fellow ship owner Stavros Niarchos, and his love affairs with Maria Callas and Jacqueline Kennedy. The film will also explore Onassis’ strained relationship with Bobby Kennedy, who imposed secret control over the tycoon’s companies and banned his trading activities in the U.S. Irish actor Michael Fassbender will play Bobby Kennedy, while the perfect candidate for the role of Jacqueline Kennedy is still being sought by the crew. Filming is expected to begin in September, with “Nemesis” poised to be the film event of the year.
