Jared Leto’s Joker Transformation Does Not Seem Difficult After Looking at His 70 Lbs Body Transformation for Chapter 27
Sophia Hammond
Updated on April 03, 2026
Jared Leto who played the Joker in the 2016 movie Suicide Squad, underwent a dramatic physical and psychological makeover. For the part, he apparently put on sixty pounds of weight and studied the psychology and mannerisms of the character for months. But considering how drastically his body changed in Chapter 27, his transition into the Joker does not appear to be that difficult.
Jared Leto is a determined actor. He is renowned for having a strong commitment to his work and frequently going above and beyond to fully inhabit his characters. Leto has received multiple accolades and critical acclaim for his dedication to his work. He is renowned for his adaptability as well, having portrayed a variety of characters, from dramatic to comic.
Jared Leto’s 60 lbs Gain for Joker Seems Small in Front of His Almost 70 Lbs Gain for Chapter 27
Jared Leto famously gained 60 pounds for his role as the Joker in the 2016 film Suicide Squad. His strong method acting style, which entails fully immersing oneself in the physical and mental state of the character, included this drastic weight gain. Leto’s transition drew both compliments and criticism, but there is no doubt that he was fully committed to the role.
Leto reportedly consumed a high-calorie diet consisting of protein shakes and junk food. He also quit exercising, which resulted in a reduction in muscular mass. Such high weight gain will have a negative effect on anyone’s health, and it is advised to others not to do the same. Leto felt that the weight increase was essential to embodying the Joker’s character, even with the hazards involved.
However, taking into account his 67 lbs transformation for Chapter 27, his 60 lbs change does not seem that much drastic and unattainable. Leto gained 67 pounds for his role as Mark Chapman, the man who murdered John Lennon, and Leto wanted to look as physically imposing as possible in order to portray him accurately. During an interview with the NY Daily News, Jared Leto told them,
“Towards the end of the shoot, one of the glaring issues was the pain I had with my feet. I couldn’t walk long distances; I had a wheelchair because it was so painful. My body was in shock from the amount of weight I gained.”
Leto gained more weight for Chapter 27 than he did for Suicide Squad, and it was even more scenic. He gained weight in just a number of weeks, which is a very fast rate of weight gain. Given the likely strain on the heart and other organs, this could have been harmful. But Leto seemed to have been able to control his weight increase without much damage, and he did not suffer any harmful health effects.
Jared Leto’s Joker in Suicide Squad Was An Unique Take On The Clown Prince of Crime
Jared Leto’s portrayal of the Joker in the 2016 film Suicide Squad was a bold and unconventional take on the iconic character, eliciting strong reactions from both critics and fans. Leto’s interpretation of the Joker was unquestionably distinct from the character’s conventional representations. With his green hair, tattoos, and characteristics, he added a level of physicality and theatricality to the role, making for an eerie and unforgettable performance.
Moreover, Leto’s portrayal of the Joker was more emotionally open than earlier versions, highlighting the character’s agony and desperation. His portrayal of the Joker, however, was criticized by some for being overly ostentatious and lacking depth and complexity. Critics contended that he did not adequately explore the psychological reasons for the Joker, instead relying too much on physicality and gimmicks in his performance.
Despite the mixed reviews, Leto’s Joker remains a significant and memorable interpretation of the character. His interpretation of the part went beyond what was expected of it, raising questions from both critics and admirers. While not universally loved, Leto’s Joker left an indelible mark on the DC franchise.
