Leonardo DiCaprio could be called to give evidence in German court after his cousin ‘swindled film company out of £88,000 by saying he could persuade the Titanic star to appear in one of its films’

Leonardo DiCaprio’s cousin has been accused of swindling a film company out of more than £88,000 by claiming he could persuade the actor to star in one of its films.

Niklas In den Birken, 29, allegedly provided the firm with a stream of fictitious updates on his efforts to bring the Oscar-winning actor on board – including claims they had attended the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s wedding together.

He allegedly managed to extract large sums of cash and a Porsche Cayenne but now faces prosecution.

Niklas In den Birken, 29, (left) allegedly provided the firm with a stream of fictitious updates on his efforts to bring Leonardo DiCaprio (right) on board – including claims they had attended the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s wedding together

In den Birken (pictured) allegedly managed to extract large sums of cash and a Porsche Cayenne but now faces prosecution
The production company in Munich, which has not been named, has suggested the The Wolf of Wall Street star could be called to give evidence.

DiCaprio, 48, grew up in Los Angeles with German heritage on both sides of the family – though it is reported he has little contact with his relatives there.

It is understood that the actor is not yet on the witness list.

The trial will begin on May 5 in Munich.