Based on the real Jordan Belfort and his memoir. While the core events of his rise and fall at Stratton Oakmont occurred, the film likely exaggerates the debauchery and details based on Belfort's potentially unreliable narration.

Based on Belfort's real business partner, Danny Porush. The name was changed, and while based on Porush's role, Porush himself has disputed specific events depicted (like the goldfish scene) as fictional exaggerations.

Based on Nadine Caridi, Jordan Belfort's real second wife. The name was changed, but the character reflects Caridi's relationship timeline and experiences with Belfort during his period of excess.

Mark Hanna was a real stockbroker at L.F. Rothschild who mentored Belfort briefly. His cynical advice and lifestyle depicted in the film are based on Belfort's account of the real person.

This character is largely based on real FBI Special Agent Gregory Coleman, who led the investigation into Jordan Belfort and Stratton Oakmont. The name was changed for the film.

Max Belfort was Jordan's real father, an accountant who worked at Stratton Oakmont and often clashed with its culture, as depicted.

The aggressive, high-pressure sales tactics portrayed in the film are consistent with accounts from former Stratton Oakmont employees and clients. These tactics were a key element of their fraudulent schemes.

Stratton Oakmont's use of 'pump and dump' schemes, where they artificially inflated stock prices and then sold their own shares, is a documented fact and central to the SEC charges against them. The film accurately portrays this core element of their illegal operations.

While some details may be exaggerated for dramatic effect, Belfort's extravagant lifestyle, including wild parties, expensive homes, and luxury items, is well-documented and aligns with the film's portrayal. His lifestyle was a key part of his public image.

The film depicts Belfort's first and second marriages. While the general timeline and circumstances are accurate, some specific details may have been altered or dramatized for the film.

The SEC's investigation into Stratton Oakmont's activities is a matter of public record. The film's depiction of the investigation, while potentially simplified, reflects the real-world scrutiny the firm faced.

Belfort did cooperate with the FBI in their investigation of other brokers, which is a significant plot point in the film and a factual element of the real case.

While exact figures are disputed, Belfort amassed considerable wealth through his illegal activities. The film's depiction of his wealth, while perhaps embellished, likely reflects the reality of his financial gains.

The yacht sinking incident during a storm, as depicted in the film, did occur in real life.

Belfort did serve time in prison for his crimes, though the film's depiction of his prison experience may be brief and focus on certain aspects.

Belfort's extensive use of cocaine and other drugs is a key element of the story and is consistent with his own accounts and the accounts of others. The film's depiction of this aspect is generally considered accurate.

The film concludes with Belfort's career as a motivational speaker, which is a real aspect of his post-prison life. He continues to give motivational speeches and conduct sales training.

The film is generally considered to have captured the frenetic, high-energy, and often morally questionable culture that existed at Stratton Oakmont. Many former employees have confirmed the accuracy of this portrayal.