Will Jared Leto's Sexual Misconduct Allegations Impact His Big Studio Movies ‘Tron: Ares' and ‘Masters of the Universe'?
Jared Leto is about to step into a global spotlight he hasn't occupied since 2022, when the emo vampire movie 'Morbius' flopped at the box office. The Oscar winner has two starring roles in the big-budget films 'Tron: Ares' and 'Masters of the Universe' in the next 12 months. Along with his designer luggage, he'll bring the baggage of sexual misconduct accusations. A Saturday report from Air Mail contained accounts from 9 accusers (almost all speaking anonymously) saying that Leto serially pursued them, some while they were underage, in the mid-to-late 2000s. In some cases, Leto was accused of exposing himself and harassment. In a public statement, Leto flatly denied any wrongdoing, but the report arrives at a fraught moment for the actor carrying Disney's 'Tron' franchise, as well appearing as the villain in Amazon MGM's He-Man adaptation. Industry insiders are wondering how he can shoulder the pressure of selling two theatrical movies and dance around the damning claims. Will a glossy monthly magazine invite Leto to flaunt his signature long locks and elevated fashion on the cover if he doesn't elaborate on the accusations? Will Hot Ones serve him a hellfire habanero chicken wing? Will Jimmy Fallon spin his Wheel of Impressions if Leto has become radioactive? Those type of appearances are standard for an actor promoting a big movie like 'Tron: Ares,' which is a rare first-name-on-the-call-sheet gig for Leto. Over the past decade, he's largely focused on supporting roles in films like 'Suicide Squad' and 'House of Gucci' that often find him outfitted in elaborate makeup and prosthetics. Leto is currently on tour with his band 30 Seconds to Mars through the end of summer. Directly after he's meant to gear up for the Oct. 10 release of the next 'Tron' film, in which he co-stars with Evan Peters, Greta Lee, Jodie Turner-Smith and Gillian Anderson. Disney is no stranger to leading man headaches around its franchise films, having soldiered through Hurricane Johnny Depp during his 'Pirates of the Caribbean' run. Most think the Leto allegations aren't comparable to the numerous scandals that rocked Depp. The most explosive allegations in the Air Mail piece were its claims that Leto used sexually aggressive language with a minor, asking her if she had ever given oral sex. The report also said that Leto paraded with his 'dick out' in front of a 17-year-old at his home. Leto denied both accusations. None of the alleged misbehavior happened on a film set, sources close to 'Tron' noted, and no criminal charges or civil suits have been brought against the star. Another insider close to 'Masters of the Universe' made similar points. Representatives for Walt Disney Studios and Amazon MGM had no comment on the matter. A rep for Leto declined to provide comment for this story. There are several playbooks floating on how to reconcile personal crisis with contractually mandated media saturation. Blake Lively decided to hide in plain sight earlier this year, attending photo calls in elaborate gowns to hype her thriller 'Another Simple Favor.' Not once did she address her scorched-earth court battle with her 'It Ends With Us' director Justin Baldoni. Shia LaBeouf ran headfirst into a tornado of his own making last month in Cannes, appearing in black tie to support 'Slauson Rec,' an intimate look at the actor's disastrous attempt to start a theater group in South Central Los Angeles. The film documented alarming bouts of rage and regret from LaBeouf, who was open about his sobriety struggles, and even touched on abuse allegations from former partner FKA Twigs. His appearance seemed to part of an effort by LaBeouf to show he's attempting to make amends.
One seasoned C-suite executive believes that Leto may benefit from a feeling that the #MeToo movement has lost steam in the current political landscape. 'In this climate, you'd get in more trouble for saying something bad about Donald Trump on the air,' the exec noted.
More from Variety
'Tron: Ares' Trailer: Rogue Programs Race Light Cycles Through the City in First Look at Disney's Sci-Fi Sequel
Jared Leto, Jeff Bridges Debut Visually Stunning 'Tron: Ares' Trailer at CinemaCon: 'It Will Hit You Right in The Grid'
Nicholas Galitzine Shows Off He-Man Training (and Bulging Muscles) in CinemaCon Set Footage: 'He Is Transforming'
Best of Variety
New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week
'Harry Potter' TV Show Cast Guide: Who's Who in Hogwarts?
25 Hollywood Legends Who Deserve an Honorary Oscar
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Buzz Feed
an hour ago
- Buzz Feed
30 BoxLunch Gifts That'll Make Disney Fans Feel *Seen*
A '90s throwback-style Lilo & Stitch tee they're 100% going to wear to see the new live action in theaters for the 626th time (AS THEY SHOULD). If you *really* want to jazz up their gift, snag this Stitch-and-the-ducklings hat and these Stitch press-on nails, too, to complete the look. Promising reviews: "The unusual wraparound design that continues on the sleeves gets lots of compliments. I can't wait to wear this to the theater when I go see the live-action Lilo & Stitch movie." —elsamax"Cute and who doesn't love Lilo & Stitch?" —Mo889Price: $24.43 (originally $34.90; available in sizes XS–L) A fringe Loungefly Disney dogs and cats tote and convertible backpack (with an attached coin purse!) to give them ~options~ both in how they wear their bag and in what four-legged Disney pet is their fave that day. Fair warning: Their excited noises might start a Twilight Bark. Also available as a classic Loungefly mini $84.90 A pair of Beauty and the Beast pajama pants that just scream cozy nostalgia. Look, if you're purchasing for a millennial Beauty and the Beast fan, they're going to have flashbacks to their beloved childhood Belle sheet set, which will make YOU the Belle of the gift-giving ball. Bonus gifts: This Beauty and the Beast claw clip, a Belle face mask and scrunchy set, and this enchanted rose teacup and saucer to give them the ultimate bookish princess self-care day! Promising review: "These sleep pants are so cute and soft. Love them!" —DebbieJPrice: $29.90 (available in sizes S–2X) An Up house multi-photo frame for the person who's always right beside you in photos and in life to remind you that, "Adventure is out there!!!" And keep them hydrated on all those adventures with this Kevin (and Kevin's baby!) straw $44.90 A Winnie-the-Pooh patchwork vest the cottagecore Disney lover in your life will want in their wardrobe more than a big ol' pot of hunny in their rumbly tumbly. Pair with this figurine mug of Pooh tumbling into a hunny pot for maximum cozy cottagecore Disney $59.90 (available in sizes XS–3X) A hangable Ratatouille kitchen conversion chart because anyone can cook, but if they need a little help remembering how many ounces are in a cup, everyone's fave little chef is here to lend an assist. If they're big Remy fans or else just living their best tomato girl summer, this hardy canvas Ratatouille tote will also go over better than béchamel if you're just after a Disney-tastic conversion chart, check out this Stitch one, a Pizza Planet option, or this Jack and Zero reviews: "My husband loves this! It's so cute and the perfect addition to our kitchen!" —Sam RLA"Great addition to any Ratatouille kitchen. Was a lot sturdier than I was expecting. Love it!" —UrKryptonitePrice: $12.90 A Mickey ears knit bucket hat so the park-lover in your life can standout from the Mickey ear crowd in the cutest way possible. There's also a Winnie-the-Pooh version if they're a 100 Acre Wood fan!Promising review: "I love it, great quality! Just perfect — you got the ears and some shade." —MCtopicaPrice: $19.74 (originally $32.90) A Lion King fleece throw if they are fully embracing their Hakuna Matata era and need a snuggly blanket to help keep them toasty warm through their next Disney+ marathon. Promising review: "Super soft. I love it!" —LovezowlzPrice: $20.93 (originally $29.90) A Wandering Oaken's Trading Post sweatshirt to feed into their obsession with saying, "Yoo hoo. Big summer blowout!" at every opportunity and keep them cozy while they do it. Sun balm of Oaken's own invention not included, review: "This sweatshirt is slightly oversized and incredibly comfy. Will fit any Frozen theme perfectly!" —KensiPrice: $27.23 (originally $38.90; available in sizes XS–XL) A Mickey and Minnie bird bath if they like "to feed the birds for tuppence a bag" but also help them get a lil' bath in, you know? If they're fans of our OTP and birds, you've got yourself a talk-about-for-years kinda gift on your hands. Price: $48.90 A Phineas and Ferb x Star Wars crossover shirt of dreams for anyone who has been counting down to the 104 days of summer vacation and the reboot. (🙋🏻♀️) Promising review: "I love this shirt! Fun crossover and feels comfortable. The words are embroidered, which is nice." —VenyPrice: $23.92 (originally $29.90; available in sizes XS–XL) A Toy Story car sunshade because whether they're headed to Al's Toy Barn or Andy's house, you don't want their steering wheel getting too hot while the car sits out in the sun. Promising reviews: "Cute, fun shade. Just like the toys driving the Pizza Planet truck." —CandC"Perfect for any Toy Story fan. Can't wait for the new movie to release. Grabs yours while you can!!" —Joseph EAPrice: $14.63 (originally $20.90) A Princess Tiana cropped basketball jersey for that one friend who hasn't stopped singing "Almost There" since 2009 and there's no stopping in sight. No need for friends on the other side when they've got you and your gift-giving prowess on theirs! Promising reviews: "Great quality, very breathable for summer days, and has a beautiful color." —Courtney98"So comfortable, cute, and great quality!" —ShannonL79Price: $26.94 (originally $44.90; available in sizes XS–3X and plus sizes) A hand-painted Genie and the lamp salt and pepper shaker set: If they want a little extra flavor, all they've gotta do is rub that lamp. Promising review: "Very cute, well-painted." —Cloey GPrice: $20.93 (originally $29.90) A super subtle Baymax! tee that will have people in the know giving a little appreciative bah-a-la-la-la and everyone else just assuming it's a really cool, minimalist design shirt. Promising reviews: "Super cute T-Shirt! Design is identical to the picture. Perfect for a Baymax! fan!" —Anonymous"It's a cute shirt that I got for my girlfriend." —Abraham BPrice: $20.23 (originally $28.90; available in sizes S–XL) An Anxiety figural claw clip so they can hold their hair back and have a cute reminder give their own anxiety a break from the control console and plop 'em in the corner with a cup of tea. Are they just full of emotions? Grab an Inside Out 2 character magnet blind bag for funsies!Promising review: "Very cute, it seems like it's good quality and will hold up. I got it as a gift for someone, so I think they'll love it." —Megw99Price: $8.94 (originally $14.90) A Captain America baseball jersey for that one sporty Disney pal who is eternally flipping between Disney+ and ESPN. Promising reviews: "Bought this and was shocked on how well it looked." —CaptainIron"Love it. Got it for a gift and it's perfect sizing." —RedxoPrice: $32.45 (originally $64.90; available in sizes XS–4X) A weighted Pua plush perfect for kid and adult wayfinders who want a comforting, plush presence to cuddle by night. Read more about weighted blankets (the close cousins of weighted plushies) and how they help with sleep from the Cleveland reviews: "Super cute! Bigger than I thought it was gonna be! Love it!" —M Giddings"Bigger than expected! Very well-made and very cute." —PintsizedamberrPrice: $20.93 (originally $29.90) A luxe Mickey Mouse Country Club windbreaker if you want to help protect their warmth on breezy days with everyone's fave Disney sidekick. Price: $79.90 (available in sizes XS–4X) Or an Eeyore windbreaker with the cutest Disney easter egg inside on the lining for that one person who is always quoting Eeyore's famous, "The sky has finally fallen. Always knew it would." Promising review: "I love my retire jacket! It's a little thicker than a windbreaker! It's very comfortable!" —JaazeePrice: $64.90 (available in sizes S–L) A Lizzie McGuire floating pen because sometimes nostalgia really is what dreams are made of. Tilt to the side and watch little Lizzie float up and down in her snow globe of angsty feelings. Hey now, hey now, don't forget this retro Lizzie crewneck, while you're at it! (And get ready for them to be an outfit repeater with it, too.)Promising review: "I love this Lizzie McGuire pen so cool." —ShnellycatPrice: $7.90 A curiouser and curiouser Alice in Wonderland wallet if they're always forgetting their wallet at home. This one comes with a handy reminder and promises to safely hold all their cards even if they're late and dashing for a very important date. Promising review: "Love this wallet, super cute, and sugar cookie-scented. I got the matching bag and they make a great set." —Alexiste96Price: $23.94 (originally $39.90) A posable Millennium Falcon desk lamp — never tell me the odds. They're gonna love having a bit of galactic history shedding light on their workspace. Promising reviews: "Awesome gift!" —Sta Wars FanPrice: $59.90 A Heeler House cardigan to make that one parent-friend who watches Bluey after their kids are already asleep feel ~seen~. ALSO comes in a Sleepy Time I can *personally* recommend. Psst. Also, this embroidered "I pick myself up, dust myself off, and keep going" granny-style Bluey pillow is A MUST for anyone who cries through half the $45.43 (available in sizes XS–3X and in plus sizes) A Loungefly Goofy floaty coin purse so the goofball in your life will have a place to stash their summer ice cream truck funds without losing them... again. There's also a matching mini backpack!Price: $22.90 A floral Minnie Mouse smock dress for the person whose fave part of the Disney parks calendar is Dapper Day and wants a touch of that year-round with pockets, flutter sleeves, and everyone's favorite bowed mouse! Promising review: "I just got this dress in the mail and I ABSOLUTELY love it! It's perfect. Quality-made, beautiful design, stretchy, it's just perfect. As a plus-size girl, I recommend. I got an XL and it fits perfectly." —RosePedalzPrice: $64.90 (available in sizes XS–3X and in plus sizes) A Dumbo retractable lanyard because if Dumbo can fly with ears, they can scan into work with style. If you're after a lanyard, there's a ton of Disney options: Bambi with a touch of flowers, Marie from The Aristocats, Wall-E, and Stitch!Price: $10.14 A Loungefly Minnie Mouse cotton candy crossbody that is giving EVERYTHING perfect about summer, but with the most delightful (and subtle!) of Disney twists. Price: $41.93 (originally $59.90) A Taran Funko Pop! for that deep-cut-proud Disney fan who likes to show off their OG Disney knowledge and thinks ~pre-'90s Disney~ is where it's at. Price: $12.90 And finally, a Snuggly Duckling tee if they've got a dream and you're grotesquely optimistic this will be their new favorite thing in their closet. Price: $20.93 (originally $29.90; available in sizes S–3X)
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Harvey Weinstein sex crimes retrial ends in disarray as jury foreperson refuses to deliberate
Harvey Weinstein's sex crimes retrial case ended in disarray on Thursday as the jury foreperson refused to deliberate and the judge declared a mistrial on a remaining rape allegation. The ruling came a day after a split verdict on other charges in the landmark #MeToo-era case and now sets up the former studio boss for a third trial in New York. Before that case however goes ahead, the 73-year-old will face new sentencing early next month on his sexual assault conviction. The Oscar-winning movie producer denies all the charges and his lawyer says he plans to appeal. Related New York jury convicts Harvey Weinstein of top charge in #MeToo sex crimes retrial In Wednesday's partial verdict, Weinstein was convicted of one criminal sex act charge but acquitted of another. Both concerned accusations of forcing oral sex on women in 2006. Those verdicts still stand. While the jury of seven women and five men was unanimous on those decisions, it got stuck on the rape charge involving another woman, Jessica Mann. The hairstylist and actor testified at length — as she did in 2020 — that Weinstein raped her amid a years-long consensual relationship. 'I will never give up on myself and making sure my voice – and the truth – is heard," Mann said in a statement Thursday, confirming she's ready to testify yet again. Tensions and disagreements among the jury began to emerge in public last Friday as one member asked to be excused because he felt another was being treated unfairly. On Monday, the foreperson complained that other jurors were pushing people to change their minds and talking about information beyond the charges. The man raised concerns again Wednesday, telling the judge he felt afraid in the jury room because another juror was yelling at him for sticking to his opinion and suggested the foreperson would 'see me outside.' When Judge Curtis Farber asked the foreperson Thursday whether he was willing to return to deliberations, the man said said no. And with that, Farber declared a mistrial on the rape count. Two jurors disputed the foreperson's account as they left court. One, Chantan Holmes, said that no one mistreated the man and that she believed he was just tired of deliberating. 'We all felt bad. Because we really wanted to do this. We put our hearts and souls in here,' she said. Another jury member, who identified himself only by his juror number, said the deliberations were contentious, but respectful. 'What happened in that jury room was absolutely improper,' attorney Arthur Aidala said outside court. Weinstein is due back in court July 2 for discussion of retrial and sentencing dates. His first-degree criminal sex act conviction carries the potential for up to 25 years in jail, while the unresolved third-degree rape charge is punishable by up to four years — less than he already has served. He's been behind bars since his initial conviction in 2020, and he later also was sentenced to prison in a separate California case, which he's appealing. Weinstein's 2020 conviction seemed to cement the downfall of one of Hollywood's most powerful men in a pivotal moment for the #MeToo movement. The anti-sexual-misconduct campaign was fueled by allegations against him. But that conviction was overturned last year, and the case was sent back for retrial in the same Manhattan courthouse. Weinstein's accusers said he exploited his Tinseltown influence to dangle career help, get them alone and then trap and force them into sexual encounters. 'These hopeful young women were trying to follow their dreams in a world that he controlled,' Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat, said at a news conference Thursday. Weinstein's defence portrayed his accusers as Hollywood wannabes and hangers-on who willingly hooked up with him in the hope of getting opportunities, then later said they were victimized to collect settlement funds and #MeToo approbation. Miriam Haley, the producer and production assistant whom Weinstein was convicted — twice, now — of sexually assaulting, said outside court Wednesday that the new verdict 'gives me hope.' Accuser Kaja Sokola also called it 'a big win for everyone,' even though Weinstein was acquitted of forcibly performing oral sex on her when she was a 19-year-old fashion model. Her allegation was added to the case after the retrial was ordered.
Indianapolis Star
2 hours ago
- Indianapolis Star
Who's returning to 'Spaceballs' sequel? What to know about the movie
Yogurt is coming back to the big screen for a 'Spaceballs' sequel. Oscar winner Mel Brooks will reprise his role as Yogurt in Amazon MGM Studios' new "Spaceballs" movie, reports Deadline. The studio made the announcement on June 12. Brooks, who directed and starred in the original 1987 'Star Wars' and sci-fi genre parody, will also be a producer. Yogurt is an alien who mentored protagonist Lone Starr (Bill Pullman) in the first movie. There's no word on the plot, but entertainment industry publication reports the new movie is described by folks who have yet to read the script as 'A Non-Prequel Non-Reboot Sequel Part Two but with Reboot Elements Franchise Expansion Film.' Brooks isn't the only "Spaceballs" cast member returning for the sequel. Bill Pullman and Rick Moranis, reprising their respective roles as Lone Starr and Dark Helmet, will star alongside the previously announced Josh Gad, according to Deadline. Meanwhile, Keke Palmer ('One of Them Days') has joined the cast. The original movie also starred John Candy and Daphne Zuniga. The sequel will be released in theaters in 2027. Josh Greenbaum will direct. Scriptwriters are Gad, Benji Samit and Dan Hernandez. Other producers are Gad with Imagine Entertainment's Brian Grazer and Jeb Brody, Brooks and Greenbaum. Samit, Hernandez, Kevin Salter and Adam Merims will executive produce.
