When did Leonardo DiCaprio switch from Heartthob Movie Star to Oscar Worthy Actor?

Question

Not like he wasn't oscar worthy in What's Eating Gilbert Grape, but you know, he wasn't mega-famous yet when that came out. But seriously, like after Romeo and Juliet and Titanic he was HUGE with the 14 year olds Leomania. Now he's this Oscar worthy mega star, but no longer a movie star but more of a actor (one of the best I must say) doing more high intense movies. From what movie was he's switching movie. When did he go from extreme Tigerbeat coverboy wannabe badboy to now. Like watch Catch Me If You Can then watch Titanic or Basketball Diaries. He really became a great guy though with saving the environment and always seemed to be modest. But when was he's turning point where he went from the topic of every 9th girl to he's amazingly huge career now , but not as a heartthob (well, he is still a heartthob) but as a actor? Where was the switch?

Answer 1

He's always been a great actor. He can't help that he's extremely good looking. I don't think that he really persued the heartthrob thing. It just happened.

Answer 2

"Titanic" turned him into a megastar, and he's proved himself worthy in movies after it. My favorite movie of his is "Catch Me if you Can." My bf's is "The Departed" and we both liked him in "Gangs of New York." He's got star quality, people like his good looks, personality and acting.