Jared Leto: Joker Sent Rats, Bullets, and Cupcakes

BackstageOL’s Dave Morales recently sat down with Jared Leto to discuss his role as the Joker in Warner Bros.’  Suicide Squad  and what it’s like to be in a summer blockbuster.

“It’s such an honor to be a part of this cast,” Leto stated about the film. “It really is an honor and a special thing. I’ve never been a part of a big film like this. So it’s a first time for me. And I’m really just so glad that they asked me to do it, and I can contribute to the film.”

When it was brought up that Leto had reportedly sent some interesting gifts to his fellow Suicide Squad castmates, including rats and bullets, Leto revealed that he really embraced the Joker role, but also sent out some nicer gifts.

“[The Joker] likes to give gifts,” Leto said. “I did give some cupcakes. Nobody likes to talk about that. I wouldn’t have eaten them, but I did give some cupcakes.”

Playing an iconic character that has appeared in multiple films and television series over the past few decades was also a bit daunting for Leto.

“It was intimidating. There was a lot of pressure,” Leto stated. “There have been such phenomenal performances, and it was inspiring as well. You know, Jack Nicholson, incredible. Cesar Romero, unforgettable. Mark Hamill, insane voice work. And Heath Ledger…not just [one of the] greatest villains but I think one of the best performances in the history of film.”

“I did feel the pressure and responsibility, and I learned a lot from their performances,” he added. “What I took was that sense of fearlessness they all share. They all dove in so deep. They were all so bold and brave and that really inspired me.”

While Leto is busy promoting the film, he is also still working hard on the music side of his career with his band Thirty Seconds to Mars.

“I’m actually finishing Thirty Seconds to Mars’ new album right now with the band and my brother. Shannon [Leto} and I are in the studio everyday.”

Thirty Seconds to Mars Teases New Album

Check out the full interview below: