The BBC documentary Jared Leto: Hollywood's Dark Secret has brought to light allegations of systematic criminal misconduct against teenage girls over decades. Four women now in their 20s, 30s and 40s recount experiences they say include sexual assault, statutory rape and grooming.
Previous investigations
This is not the first attempt to examine Leto's behavior. In 2005, the New York Post reported he was pursuing underage girls at a hotel. By 2018, actor Dylan Sprouse and director James Gunn joked online about his interest in teenagers. Last year, Air Mail spoke to nine women who alleged similar misconduct; Leto's representatives denied the claims then.
Documentary details
Jessica Sartenaer's film includes interviews with four women who appear on camera, supported by anonymous former co-workers who witnessed Leto's methods of procuring underage fans from concerts. The documentary also shows archive footage of Leto with young girls and a clip where he quotes the line about high school girls from Dazed and Confused.
Timing and impact
Leto declined to comment for this documentary, unlike his earlier denial. The filmmakers note that Leto is no longer a major box-office draw, with recent flops Tron: Ares and Masters of the Universe reportedly losing millions. The documentary is available on BBC iPlayer and YouTube.
Support for sexual abuse survivors is available via Rape Crisis (England and Wales 0808 500 2222, Scotland 0808 801 0302, Northern Ireland 0800 0246 991), Rainn (US 800-656-4673), and 1800Respect (Australia 1800 737 732).
