When Titanic set sail in theaters in 1997, it became a cinematic masterpiece that captivated audiences worldwide. Directed by James Cameron, the film told the tragic love story of Jack and Rose against the backdrop of the real-life maritime disaster. Now, in 2025, let’s take a look at how the cast has changed over the years.

Leonardo DiCaprio (Jack Dawson)

Then: A rising star at 23, DiCaprio’s portrayal of Jack Dawson made him a Hollywood heartthrob. His performance in Titanic catapulted him into stardom. Now: DiCaprio has since won an Oscar for The Revenant (2015) and continues to be one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. He has taken on numerous critically acclaimed roles in films such as Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019) and Killers of the Flower Moon (2023). In 2025, he remains an advocate for climate change awareness and environmental activism.

Kate Winslet (Rose DeWitt Bukater)

Then: Winslet, at just 22, received an Academy Award nomination for her role as the rebellious and elegant Rose. Now: Over the years, Winslet has built a stellar career, winning an Oscar for The Reader (2008) and starring in acclaimed projects such as Mare of Easttown (2021). She recently appeared in Avatar: The Way of Water (2022) and remains one of the most respected actresses in the industry.

Billy Zane (Cal Hockley)

Then: Zane played the arrogant and wealthy antagonist, Cal Hockley, cementing his place as one of the most memorable movie villains. Now: While he never reached A-list status, Zane has continued acting in TV and film, appearing in indie projects and voice-over roles. He remains a beloved figure at fan conventions and Titanic retrospectives.

Kathy Bates (Molly Brown)

Then: The seasoned actress portrayed the real-life “Unsinkable” Molly Brown, a first-class passenger who became one of the film’s most beloved characters. Now: Bates has since won an Oscar for Misery (1990) and remained a powerhouse in Hollywood. She continues acting in films and TV, including American Horror Story, where she has played multiple roles over the years.

Frances Fisher (Ruth DeWitt Bukater)

Then: Fisher played Rose’s controlling mother, Ruth, who was determined to marry her daughter into wealth. Now: Fisher remains active in Hollywood, starring in various film and TV roles. She has also become an advocate for social justice and women’s rights.

Victor Garber (Thomas Andrews)

Then: Garber portrayed Thomas Andrews, the ship’s designer who met his tragic end trying to save passengers. Now: A veteran actor, Garber has enjoyed a successful career in TV and film, including Legends of Tomorrow and Argo (2012). He continues to be an in-demand performer.

Bernard Hill (Captain Edward Smith)

Then: Hill played Captain Edward Smith, the man responsible for the Titanic’s doomed voyage. Now: After Titanic, Hill starred in The Lord of the Rings trilogy as King Théoden. He remains a respected actor but has largely stepped back from major Hollywood productions.

Danny Nucci (Fabrizio De Rossi)

Then: Nucci played Jack’s loyal Italian friend, Fabrizio. Now: He has continued acting, mainly in TV, including a long-running role in The Fosters.

Gloria Stuart (Old Rose)

Then: Stuart played the elderly Rose, narrating the film’s story in 1997. Now: Sadly, Stuart passed away in 2010 at the age of 100, but her legacy lives on in Titanic history.

David Warner (Spicer Lovejoy)

Then: Warner played Cal’s sinister bodyguard, Lovejoy. Now: Warner continued acting in film and television until his passing in 2022.

Jonathan Hyde (J. Bruce Ismay)

Then: Hyde portrayed the real-life White Star Line executive who was criticized for his role in the disaster. Now: Hyde has continued acting in TV and film, remaining a respected British actor.

Suzy Amis (Lizzy Calvert)

Then: Amis played Rose’s granddaughter in the modern-day sequences. Now: Amis later married director James Cameron and retired from acting to focus on environmental activism.

Ioan Gruffudd (Fifth Officer Lowe)

Then: Gruffudd had a small but important role as the officer who returned to look for survivors. Now: He later gained fame in Fantastic Four (2005) and continues acting in film and TV.

Eric Braeden (John Jacob Astor IV)

Then: Braeden portrayed the real-life millionaire who perished in the sinking. Now: Best known for The Young and the Restless, Braeden remains an active and celebrated soap opera star.

Final Thoughts

The Titanic cast has experienced immense career highs and personal losses since 1997. While some actors remain in the limelight, others have taken different paths, but their contributions to this legendary film will never be forgotten. As Titanic continues to be a beloved classic, its cast’s legacy remains as unsinkable as the story itself.