Congress has cut federal funding for public media — a $3.4 million loss for LAist. We count on readers like you to protect our nonprofit newsroom. Become a monthly member and sustain local journalism.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Dude Pissed About His 'Wolf Of Wall Street' Portrayal Wants Film Pulled From Theaters
The real-life version of Nicky "Rugrat" Koskoff in "The Wolf of Wall Street" is livid over his less-than-stellar portrayal and wants the film yanked from theaters.
Andrew Greene, an investment banker who was present during Stratton Oakmont's heyday of illegal activities that were highlighted in the film, is also filing a $25 million lawsuit against Paramount Pictures, claiming that the character is hurting his reputation and employment chances, according to TMZ.
Rugrat, portrayed in the movie by P.J. Byrne, is seen in several scenes snorting blow, having sex with hookers and doing all sorts of illegal stuff. There's a particular scene where Rugrat is partaking in nose candy while giving advice over the phone to a distraught Jordan Belfort, played by Leonardo DiCaprio.
Rugrat is also mocked extensively in the film for wearing a toupee, something that also angered Greene, whose real nickname during his Wall Street days was "Wigwam," according to the Associated Press.
"The motion picture introduces "Rugrat" by referencing his "piece of shit hairpiece." In another scene, investigators ask whether his hair is real. Characters are also seen attempting to grab the toupee in a scene. Mr. Greene will be permanently linked to the crimes and loathsome behavior portrayed by his likeness in the motion picture, despite never having been interviewed, questioned, charged, imprisoned, or even arrested for the illicit and despicable behavior shown in the motion picture,"
As Editor-in-Chief of our newsroom, I’m extremely proud of the work our top-notch journalists are doing here at LAist. We’re doing more hard-hitting watchdog journalism than ever before — powerful reporting on the economy, elections, climate and the homelessness crisis that is making a difference in your lives. At the same time, it’s never been more difficult to maintain a paywall-free, independent news source that informs, inspires, and engages everyone.
Simply put, we cannot do this essential work without your help. Federal funding for public media has been clawed back by Congress and that means LAist has lost $3.4 million in federal funding over the next two years. So we’re asking for your help. LAist has been there for you and we’re asking you to be here for us.
We rely on donations from readers like you to stay independent, which keeps our nonprofit newsroom strong and accountable to you.
No matter where you stand on the political spectrum, press freedom is at the core of keeping our nation free and fair. And as the landscape of free press changes, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust, but the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news from our community.
Please take action today to support your trusted source for local news with a donation that makes sense for your budget.
Thank you for your generous support and believing in independent news.

-
Isolated showers can still hit the L.A. area until Friday as remnants from the tropical storm move out.
-
First aspiring spectators must register online, then later in 2026 there will be a series of drawings.
-
It's thanks to Tropical Storm Mario, so also be ready for heat and humidity, and possibly thunder and lightning.
-
L.A. County investigators have launched a probe into allegations about Va Lecia Adams Kellum and people she hired at the L.A. Homeless Services Authority.
-
L.A. Mayor Karen Bass suspended a state law allowing duplexes, calling more housing unsafe. But in Altadena, L.A. County leaders say these projects could be key for rebuilding.
-
This measure on the Nov. 4, 2025, California ballot is part of a larger battle for control of the U.S. House of Representatives next year.