Jared Leto Hasn't Seen Suicide Squad

Screen Rant

Jared Leto Did Not Watch His Joker in Suicide Squad

By Daniel Falconer

Published Oct 2, 2017

Jared Leto says he never watched his performance as the Joker in David Ayer's divisive DCEU Suicide Squad film from last year.

Jared Leto has admitted that he never saw his version of the Joker in the final cut of Suicide Squad. As somebody who’s been in the world of showbusiness for over two decades, Leto has certainly amassed legions of loyal fans, whether they’re in awe of his acting ability or musical talents. He can be seen this weekend in his role in Blade Runner 2049, proving once again he’s a performer who is able to adapt to his fictional surroundings with ease.

Last year, Leto divided DC Extended Universe audiences when he brought an extremely unique version of Batman villain the Joker to the big screen in Suicide Squad. Though the film was seen as a money-making success and took in over $745 million in the worldwide box office, some of the audience couldn’t warm up to Leto’s Clown Prince of Crime. Many have wondered if this is something that Leto might agree with upon watching the film, but now the actor’s explained why he’s never really been able to comment on the matter.

Speaking last week with SYFY Wire, Leto explained that he had never watched his Suicide Squad performance, because “as soon as you watch it, that’s when it becomes subjective.” He continued:

Jared Leto as the Joker in Suicide Squad

“I just think with watching your own films, it can be too self-conscious of a process. You either like what you did and you’re prone to repeat it, or you didn’t like it, and it can make you self-conscious. I’m not sure how much win there is for me. But I read the scripts, so I know what’s going to happen.”

Having been a part of the acting world for so long, it’s understandable that Leto would draw up some fatigue when it comes to looking back at his own work. He has made exceptions with some of the films he’s been a part of, admitting to watching Requiem for a Dream back in 2000 and currently saying he’ll see Blade Runner 2049 when he gets the time.

As for his role in Suicide Squad, early trailers for the film suggested the Joker would be one of the main Big Bads the band of super villains formed by Amanda Waller (Viola Davis) would have to face. When the film finally hit the big screen, however, it was clear this wasn’t the case. In fact, Joker turned out to be more of a supporting character throughout the movie, introducing himself but never fully wading into the action.

Despite the mixed response, Leto has made clear his intentions and commitment to return to the DCEU as the Joker. It would be very strange to see this version of the criminal disappear after such a fleeting appearance, so knowing that he’ll likely be on board for Gotham City Sirens and Suicide Squad 2 is reassuring. Whether or not his character will be able to work his way into the hearts of audiences in those films remains to be seen, however.