James Cameron On The ‘Titanic’ Moment Leonardo DiCaprio Couldn’t Stand: ‘He Begged Me to Cut It’

One of the most talked-about scenes in Titanic is the moment when Jack, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, teaches Rose, played by Kate Winslet, how to spit. While the scene is remembered as funny and slightly gross, it caused a lot of concern during filming.

Both DiCaprio and Winslet were uncomfortable with the idea, and many members of the production team, including the co-producer and the president of Paramount, wanted the scene removed.

Director James Cameron, however, refused to cut it. In a 1997 interview with The Buffalo News, Cameron explained, “I wrote this spitting scene where Jack shows her how to spit. The president of my company begged me to take it out. She hated it. My co-producer didn’t like it. Leonardo DiCaprio didn’t like it. Kate Winslet didn’t like the spitting scene when we all sat around reading it the first time.”

Despite the pushback, Cameron trusted his instincts and kept the scene in the film. He later said the choice paid off, as the scene became one of the audience’s favorites.

“I finally got them to fall in love with it. It’s probably the second or third highest-rated scene in the film,” he added. Cameron noted that while he considers feedback carefully, he ultimately relies on his own judgment for creative decisions.

The scene highlights how even small, unexpected moments can leave a lasting impression on audiences.

While actors and producers may have initial doubts, a director’s vision can sometimes turn controversy into a memorable cinematic moment.

This story shows the value of trusting creative instincts. Sometimes the scenes that make us uncomfortable on set are the ones that audiences end up loving. What do you think about the infamous spitting scene in Titanic? Share your thoughts in the comments below.