Full Breakdown
John Catsimatidis Hosts Screening of "Marty Supreme" Amid Gubernatorial Race
12/25/2025, 10:19:29 PM
Special Screening Event
John Catsimatidis, a prominent Republican businessman and former New York City mayoral candidate, hosted a special screening of the film "Marty Supreme" at AMC Kips Bay 15. The event featured notable attendees, including New York Governor Kathy Hochul (D) and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman (R), who are both contenders in the upcoming gubernatorial race. Catsimatidis, who has a cameo in the film, invited both political figures, highlighting his connections across party lines. The screening took place just days after Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) withdrew from the gubernatorial race, leaving Blakeman as a key challenger to Hochul.
Film Overview and Catsimatidis' Role
"Marty Supreme," directed by Josh Safdie, chronicles the life of Marty Reisman, a table tennis hustler in 1950s New York, portrayed by Timothée Chalamet. Catsimatidis plays a Greek businessman in the film, a role that has garnered attention and praise. He humorously remarked on his casting, stating, “They needed a New York character, and I guess I qualified.” The film is anticipated to be a contender during the awards season, with Catsimatidis expressing enthusiasm for his acting debut.
Political Dynamics at the Screening
During the screening, a technical issue caused a 40-minute delay, allowing Catsimatidis and Hochul to engage in conversation. This marked the first public appearance of Hochul and Blakeman together since his announcement to run against her. Despite being a Republican, Catsimatidis has maintained a friendly relationship with Hochul, referring to both candidates as “friends.” He notably refrained from endorsing either candidate during the event, stating, “Don’t ask me that question right now.”
Official Statements and Responses
Governor Hochul praised Catsimatidis during the event, presenting him with a New York State proclamation. She emphasized the film's significance, stating, “It’s about New York City, our ambition, our grit, and our resilience.” Hochul expressed her belief that Catsimatidis embodies the spirit of New York, acknowledging his multifaceted career as a businessman, radio personality, and now actor.
Criticism and Opposition
While the event showcased camaraderie among political rivals, there are underlying tensions in the gubernatorial race. Hochul currently leads Blakeman by a significant margin, according to a Siena poll, which shows her at 50% compared to Blakeman's 25%, with 21% of voters undecided. This polling data indicates a challenging path for Blakeman as he seeks to gain traction in the race.
What's Next
As the gubernatorial race heats up, both Hochul and Blakeman will continue to campaign leading up to the November election. The dynamics of their relationship, influenced by events like the "Marty Supreme" screening, will likely play a role in shaping voter perceptions and campaign strategies. Catsimatidis, meanwhile, is reportedly considering further ventures in the film industry, potentially looking to invest in a movie studio on Long Island, marking a new chapter in his diverse career.
