The Unbelievable True Story Behind Timothée Chalamet’s Marty Supreme

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Marty Reisman was the man and the myth.

Actor Matthew Broderick recalled a legendary ping pong player he knew who often played at Reisman’s table tennis parlor on 96th and Broadway in New York City. He described the player—who was supposedly a world champion—as being able to hit a cigarette placed on the table with a ping pong ball and split it in half, as he shared on The Late Show With David Letterman in 2008.

Needless to say, Reisman was waiting in the wings, ready to put the legend to the test. 

Timothée Chalamet’s performance as Reisman in Marty Supreme has already earned him a Critics’ Choice Award, and he’s also been nominated for Best Lead Actor at both the Golden Globes on January 11th and the Actor Awards on March 1st.

The character of Marty Mauser – a skilled table tennis player who’s also a bit of a con artist and storyteller – is based on the real-life adventures of Reisman, whose wild experiences were perfect for a film.

Director Josh Safdie first discovered Marty Reisman after his wife, Sara Rossein, found Reisman’s 1974 memoir, The Money Player: The Confessions of America’s Greatest Table Tennis Champion and Hustler, at a thrift store. Safdie was already familiar with the vibrant table tennis scene that existed in 1950s New York.

According to Safdie, the man “believed in something and had a dream that others dismissed,” he shared in a December interview with NPR’s All Things Considered.

Reisman, who started playing poker at age 10 in Seward Park to help with his anxiety, decided to take a chance on his own abilities.

He fell in love with table tennis and began playing competitively at the Lawrence Broadway Table Tennis Club when he was twelve years old.

In his memoir, Reisman recalled that when he first started playing at Lawrence’s, many of the other players were better than him. However, he quickly improved and eventually became the best player there, defeating everyone else.

And his winnings from hustling at night financed his aspirations of professional glory.

At age 15, he attempted to bet $500 on himself during a national table tennis tournament in Detroit. However, the man he thought was a bookmaker actually turned out to be the president of the U.S. Table Tennis Association, who then contacted the police.

Reisman was known for his extravagant displays of wealth. He famously used hundred-dollar bills to measure the height of table nets, making sure they met official standards. When questioned about not using smaller bills, he jokingly told the New York Times in 2012, “Why be cheap about it?”

A true New Yorker at heart, he always looked the part of a performer. He was rarely seen without his signature Borsalino or Panama hat, along with tinted glasses, a colorful shirt, and sneakers.

As a longtime fan, I’ve always heard stories about how much tournament officials disliked Marty Reisman. Larry Hodges, a Hall of Famer and table tennis historian, put it perfectly in a recent interview with Rolling Stone: they really didn’t like him. Hodges explained that if an official tried to enforce a minor rule – like telling Marty he couldn’t wear a hat – Marty saw it as a victory. Not just because he’d get to keep wearing the hat, but because it gave him a chance to publicly challenge the authority of the referee. It was just part of who he was!

At the same time, Reisman was an exceptional player.

Starting at age 13, he became a city champion in table tennis. Over the next 56 years, he excelled, winning 22 major championships – including titles at the US Open and British Open.

The story Marty Supreme takes place in 1952, partly because the author, Reisman, was trying to win the World Table Tennis Championship in Mumbai that year. However, he lost to Hiroji Satoh of Japan, and Reisman was particularly frustrated by Satoh’s use of a foam rubber paddle – a new technology at the time (now commonly used).

He achieved some success at the event, winning a consolation match and earning five bronze medals over the years, though a gold medal always eluded him. In 1997, at the age of 67, he made history as the oldest person to ever win a national title in a racket sport, claiming the United States National Hardbat Championship. He continued to champion the use of the traditional dimpled-rubber “hardbat” paddle for the rest of his life.

Reisman described his time touring with the Harlem Globetrotters as the highlight of his life. He performed as part of a comedic table tennis duo, often partnering with Doug Cartland.

He explained that the energy of playing in front of huge, cheering crowds was what truly inspired him to dedicate his life to table tennis. He recalled fans rising to their feet to celebrate his skills.

He preferred spending time in his office at his New York club rather than socializing on the main floor, patiently waiting for a weaker opponent he could defeat after giving them an 18-point head start.

He described himself as someone who faced challenges head-on, like a gladiator, and wasn’t afraid to take risks. He told the New York Times, about nine months before his death on December 7, 2012, at age 82, that he ‘never backed down from a bet.’

Reisman recalls they would travel anywhere for even a small reward, saying, “We once drove to Columbus, Ohio, just to get a $50 war bond, and I even made a wasted trip to Toledo because someone promised a free Jeep.”

However, not everything he did was above board. After World War II, on his first trip abroad, he bought nylon stockings for 50 cents a pair in the United States and sold them in England for a pound each, making a 400% profit. He later described it in his memoir as the start of a much larger, personal smuggling business.

But, he explained, “A player who depended on exhibition fees could starve.”

In his personal life, Marty Supreme continues to explore complicated and emotionally charged romantic relationships for the main character. Timothée Chalamet’s Marty has an affair with the sophisticated and married actress Kay Stone (Gwyneth Paltrow) while his girlfriend, Rachel Mizler (Odessa A’Zion), is pregnant and married herself, suggesting a difficult path ahead for Marty’s future relationships.

Eventually, Reisman put down roots, marrying Yoshiko Reisman in 1982 and later having a daughter, Debby Reisman.

Reisman recalled that Yoshiko was a passionate supporter of his game, as shown in the 2014 documentary Fact or Fiction: The Life and Times of a Ping Pong Hustler. Surprisingly, she also acted as his coach during matches, intensely invested in every single shot he took.

At one point in the doc, Reisman noted that he was caring for his wife, who was ill at the time.

“She did everything for me,” he explained. “I couldn’t imagine life without her.”

His daughter told the New York Times that neither she nor her children were involved in creating Marty Supreme. Though the film was inspired by a book by Reisman, the director has consistently stated it’s a work of fiction. She’s saddened that her father isn’t here to share his side of the story.

Still, she said, “He would be so happy that he’s worldwide famous now.”

The excitement continues as stars like Timothée Chalamet find out they’ve been nominated for a Golden Globe award in 2026. Here’s a look at their reactions!

Being part of this film with Jessie, Chloé, Maggie, and the entire amazing cast and crew has completely reshaped my approach to filmmaking and the stories I want to tell. Making Hamnet was a true honor, and I’m so grateful to the Golden Globes for acknowledging our work.

I’m incredibly excited that the show and Adam received Golden Globe nominations, and I’m so happy to be recognized alongside them. This show feels like family, and I’m grateful for this acknowledgment.

I’m incredibly grateful for my “Smashing Machine” family today. Thank you to the Golden Globes for this wonderful recognition and for celebrating the experience we all shared making the film.

I’m absolutely thrilled and incredibly humbled to receive my first Golden Globe nomination! It feels surreal to be recognized alongside such a talented group of artists who consistently deliver amazing work.

Playing Mark Kerr was the most impactful and rewarding experience of my career. I’m incredibly grateful to Mark for sharing his story and trusting me with it. I also want to celebrate my brother and our amazing director, Benny Safdie. I feel so lucky to have worked with Emily Blunt, who gave a powerfully moving and realistic performance as Dawn Staples – it truly brought everyone to tears. I’m still amazed by the incredible make-up work of Kazu Hiro and thankful for the entire crew, who became like family and poured their hearts into this film. This project was life-changing, and I’m deeply grateful for it all. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

 

I’m deeply honored to receive a Golden Globe award today for my role as Aunt Gladys in Zach Cregger’s film, WEAPONS, and that the film itself was also recognized. This award is a real reflection of Zach’s unique vision and the incredible work of our filmmaking team. I especially want to thank Leo Satkovich, Jason Collins, and Melizah Wheat for their work bringing the character of Gladys to life, as well as our costume designer, Trish Summerville.

This project was a real team effort, and I’m incredibly grateful for everyone’s support. It’s been amazing to see such a positive response to the film from audiences, critics, and the press. I especially loved seeing people dress up as ‘Gladys’! I also want to acknowledge the other talented women nominated alongside me – Emily, Elle, Ariana, Inga, and Teyana – they’re all fantastic examples of what women in film can achieve.

  • “I am deeply grateful for this recognition. Task was built by an extraordinary cast and crew, built on incredibly good writing and direction and nurtured by the inimitable guidance of HBO. I’m so proud to be part of this team. Thank you for seeing us.”

“I am beyond honored to be nominated. Thank you to the Golden Globes for recognizing the film. I am in the company of actors I have long admired, loved and learned from; It’s a true dream come true. I love making movies!!!”

Oh my gosh, I’m absolutely thrilled the show got nominated for a Golden Globe! Seriously, I’m beaming. And it’s not just about the award, it’s seeing everyone involved – the cast and crew, who are all so incredibly talented and lovely – get the recognition they deserve. I just adore them all, and it makes me so happy to see them appreciated!

I’m truly honored by this nomination. It feels like recognition not just for my own work, but for the incredible efforts of the 250 artists who bring ‘Hacks’ to life. ‘Hacks’ is all about the joy of collaboration and the bonds you form with your comedy partners, and I happily share this honor with every single one of my wonderful coworkers.

Thank you to the Golden Globes, and congratulations to the entire cast and crew of SINNERS! Playing two different brothers in this film was the most challenging and fulfilling experience of my career. We wouldn’t be here without the incredible vision and courage of Ryan Coogler. He pushed us to reach new heights, just as he did ten years ago when we first started working together. SINNERS is a complex story that connects to all of our pasts, exploring themes of love, loss, and the true cost of freedom. By honoring this film, you’re recognizing not only our work, but the legacy of brave and original filmmaking. Thank you so much.

We’re so excited and grateful for the Golden Globe recognition! Working on this project with this amazing group – our ‘Beastie gang’ – has been one of the most fun and rewarding experiences of my career. As my wonderful co-star, Matthew Rhys, said, it felt like everyone was working together as a perfect team from beginning to end. I’m incredibly thankful for every moment of this journey with this incredible cast and crew!

Working on Hamnet was the greatest honor of my career, a truly unforgettable experience. I’m incredibly grateful to have had the chance to portray Agnes with such talented and supportive colleagues and friends. I want to thank the Golden Globes for recognizing our film, and I share this award with Chloé, Paul, Maggie, and everyone else who contributed to bringing this story to life. We are all so proud of what we accomplished together.

 

I’m incredibly grateful to the Golden Globes for this amazing award. It meant so much to me to play this character, and I really connected with the film’s themes about the tough decisions we all face in life. I want to thank director Park Chan-wook, and everyone who worked on NO OTHER CHOICE. I’m also so happy that KPOP DEMON HUNTERS is being celebrated!

Wow, I’m still reeling from the Golden Globe nomination for Adolescence! It’s incredible to see how much love this show has gotten worldwide. As a huge fan, I know this wasn’t made by one person, but by a team who poured their hearts into it – everyone on screen and working behind the scenes deserves this recognition. And a massive thank you to Netflix for taking a chance on such a bold and unique vision. The performances from Stephen, Owen, Erin, and Ashley were absolutely breathtaking, and it’s just amazing to see them all get the individual praise they deserve. It’s the perfect reward for everyone involved!

As a creative, I was absolutely thrilled to hear about the nominations! Honestly, it feels a bit surreal to be recognized alongside such incredible work, like being invited to the Golden Globes’ table when you’re still finding your voice. But incredibly grateful, of course! A huge thank you to the Golden Globes for this honor.

I was thrilled to learn that No Other Choice received three Golden Globe nominations this morning! It’s a huge honor.

I’m incredibly thankful the film has resonated with so many people around the globe. I’m particularly happy because this kind of recognition isn’t something my films usually receive.

I want to express my sincere thanks to CJ and NEON. And a huge congratulations to my incredible lead actor and dear friend, Byung Hun – I’m incredibly proud of everything you’ve achieved.

I’m so happy to be nominated! The Golden Globes have always been special to me – I won a couple awards there over 20 years ago and even hosted the show five times. This nomination means a lot because Mortality is my favorite project I’ve worked on so far. Best of luck to all the other nominees, and thank you again.

 

Laughter truly brings everyone together, and I’m incredibly honored to be nominated for a Golden Globe for my stand-up special. I’m so grateful to the Golden Globes and to Netflix for giving me the chance to share my comedy with the world. Comedy is my passion, and I’m thankful to everyone who’s supported me and watched my special – I appreciate you all so much!

Wow, I’m still reeling from the Golden Globe! It’s such an honor to be recognized alongside such talented people – I’m truly humbled. This film, Sentimental Value, means the world to me, and I’m so grateful for the incredible team who brought it to life. A huge thank you to Renate, Stellan, Elle, Eskil, and Joachim – I’m thrilled their work is being celebrated too! I also want to thank our amazing partners at Neon and Mubi. Honestly, making this film felt like a dream come true, and this just makes it even more special.

We are overjoyed and deeply honored that KPop Demon Hunters has been recognized by the Golden Globes! Speaking for the entire cast and crew, this is a dream come true, and we are incredibly thankful to the Golden Globes, Netflix, Sony Pictures Animation, Sony Pictures Imageworks, and everyone who believed in our project over the last seven years.

As a lifestyle expert, I’ve rarely seen a film resonate quite like this one! It’s been incredible watching audiences connect with characters like Rumi, Mira, Zoey, and even the Saja Boys – not to mention the unforgettable Derpy Tiger and Sussie! Seriously, they’ve been a huge part of the film’s success, and we’re so grateful to all of you, our amazing fans – the ‘Hunters’ – for helping us achieve recognition in categories like Best Animated Motion Picture and for the incredible box office results. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

We’re incredibly proud of EJAE, Mark Sonnenblick, IDO, and Teddy for the recognition of their song ‘Golden,’ which we truly believe is the song of the year! We’ve worked hard and come a long way, and now we’re feeling optimistic. Thank you! — Maggie Kang, Chris Appelhans, and Michelle Wong

I’m incredibly thankful for the entire Bugonia team and appreciate the Golden Globe nominations. Making Bugonia was a unique and amazing experience, especially working alongside Jesse, who truly deserves recognition. This project wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible writing of Will Tracy and the visionary direction, brilliance, and heart of Yorgos Lanthimos. I’m so grateful to our wonderful cast and crew, and feel lucky to have been a part of this film. Thank you for supporting it.

I’m incredibly thankful for the Golden Globes’ recognition of Sentimental Value. These nominations reflect the passion and skill everyone poured into making our film. I’m thrilled to share this honor with Stellan, Elle, Inga, Renate, and my wonderful co-writer, Eskil Vogt. We aimed to create a film about family, finding forgiveness, and how art can offer healing, and we’re so grateful for the warm reception it’s received.

 

I woke up to wonderful news and my heart was pounding! I initially thought I’d slept through something important, and I might have even screamed when I realized why I was being called. It’s amazing that my dog didn’t even stir! It’s a truly surreal honor to be nominated with such talented performers. I want to thank my incredible friend and director, Nia DaCosta, for believing in me as Hedda, and to Amazon MGM Studios/Orion for supporting this film. I’m also grateful to the amazing cast and crew, especially the brilliant Nina Hoss – their talent truly elevated my performance.

It was a real honor to play such a well-known character. I felt a connection to all the storytellers who came before and will come after, and I tried to portray the beauty, complexity, and sometimes frightening experience of being human. I’m grateful to the Golden Globes for recognizing our work with this nomination.

I’m incredibly honored and thrilled to receive this nomination – it feels unreal! I’m especially touched that the cast, Joachim, and the film itself received a total of eight nominations.

This film has been a very special project for everyone involved – a true collaboration between the cast and crew. I’m incredibly happy to see this story and how it’s been told receive so much appreciation and love.

I’m incredibly excited and thankful for this Golden Globe nomination and all the support for One Battle After Another. I’m deeply grateful to Paul Thomas Anderson for his mentorship and friendship – I wouldn’t be here without him. To everyone involved with One Battle After Another, both in front of and behind the camera, you constantly inspire me. This film has been an amazing experience, and I feel truly blessed.

I was absolutely thrilled and so grateful to wake up to a Golden Globe nomination this morning! It’s especially meaningful to be recognized alongside such incredibly talented people – my friends and costars, Britt and Tramell, and the whole amazing team who pour their hearts into making ‘Severance.’ It truly means the world!

“I’m absolutely honored and humbled to be nominated alongside this inspiring group of artists.  I share this recognition with our behind the scenes crew-members, who craft the characters with us every day.  Thank you to the Golden Globes and to our fans, whose kindness and creativity warm our hearts.”

I’m so grateful to the Golden Globes for this award. Making Frankenstein has been a lifelong dream, and it means the world to me that it’s been so well received. I’m particularly happy that my brothers, Oscar, Jacob, and Alexandre, are being recognized for their amazing work today.

 

It’s been 25 years since the Golden Globes first recognized me for my work on Traffic, and I’m deeply grateful to be back here today receiving this honor. Thank you to the Golden Globes! I also want to congratulate my fellow nominees – Jacob, Paul, Adam, Stellan, and Sean – it’s wonderful to be sharing this category with you all. To my team, the “One Battle” family – Adam, Sara, Leo, Sean, Chase, Teyana, Regina, and our leader Paul – I’m so proud of the work we’ve done together and excited to continue this journey with you.

I was so excited to work on that show! It was a fantastic experience collaborating with Charlie Brooker, Jessica Rhoades, and the entire Black Mirror team. Chris Barrett and Luke Taylor also did a brilliant job, and I’m really proud of how it turned out.

Honestly, playing Grace was the most challenging and fulfilling role of my entire career. I’m so thankful to Marty Scorsese for trusting me with her story and thinking of me for the part. Working with Lynne Ramsay was a dream – her vision and care for every single shot were incredible. And to be recognized by the Golden Globes, and to be here alongside such amazingly talented people… it’s just truly inspiring.

I’m incredibly honored to be nominated alongside such talented actresses, and I’m truly speechless. I want to thank writer and director Mary Bronstein for giving me an amazing opportunity in her film, If I Had Legs I’d Kick You, with A24. She placed a lot of trust in me with her very personal story. It took her eight years to bring this unique film to life, and I share this nomination with her.

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2026-01-11 11:19