Jared Leto as The Joker in Suicide Squad (2016)

Jared Leto's portrayal of the Joker in *Suicide Squad* (2016) ignited significant debate, primarily due to his method acting approach off-screen. Reports of Leto sending unusual "gifts," such as used condoms and a dead rat, to his castmates became widely publicized, overshadowing his actual screen time in the film, which totaled only around seven minutes. This intense focus on his behind-the-scenes actions rather than the performance itself led to a polarizing reception, with many critics and viewers finding the portrayal more noteworthy for its controversial artistic commitment than its substance as a villain. The film, directed by David Ayer, ultimately received mixed reviews, and Leto's Joker remains a frequently discussed example of a high-profile casting choice that garnered more attention for its ancillary drama than its on-screen impact.