‘Suicide Squad': Jared Leto dedicates Joker portrayal to Heath Ledger, Jack Nicholson

Jared Leto’s portrayal of the Joker in “Suicide Squad” is one of the most-anticipated scenes in the upcoming film. A brief glimpse into the actor’s character makeup and costume from set photos and hearing his voice impersonation of the villain already assured fans that Leto’s version of the Joker will be the demented kind. The actor also assured fans that they will not be disappointed with his portrayal of DC’s Clown Prince of Crime since he aims to make Jack Nicholson and the late Heath Ledger proud with his portrayal of the character.

Leto indirectly confirmed that his portrayal of the Joker in “Suicide Squad” is dedicated to both Nicholson and the deceased Ledger. Both actors portrayed the villain character in separate movies; Nicholson in the 1989 film “Batman” and Ledger in the 2008 movie “The Dark Knight.”

The 30 Seconds to Mars frontman shared an edited photo from a Toronto-based photographer named Gaunted on his Instagram account. The photo shows both actors in full character makeup and costume. Ledger is seated while Nicholson stands behind him, his hands on the actor’s shoulders.

Written on the photo was the phrase “Don’t worry Leto will make us proud.” The singer captioned the image with, “Great work @gaunted! Was wondering who made it! Amazing. I see a few thought It was me but it wasn't. Just thought it was clever sweet + fun."

Leto reportedly shared the photo to assure the DC community that he will make them proud of his portrayal of the Joker in “Suicide Squad.”

There have been speculations that Leto’s version of the Joker in “Suicide Squad” will be similar to Nicholson’s Joker. However, the actor said in a previous interview that his take on the villain will be different. He associated his portrayal of DC’s Clown Prince of Crime to that of a much older man who listens to 1920s gospel music.

Fans have already been talking about his version of the Joker regardless of how Leto will portray the character. The five-second reveal of the villain in the “Suicide Squad” trailer released in early June was enough to get people excited to see the actor in character.

quick gut reactions: jared leto will be the best joker ever. Batman apparently can't turn his head (again).... http://t.co/bm8Q9pEHQM
— Miguel A. Echemendia (@gnomerogue) July 12, 2015

Have you guys even seen the trailer for suicide squad and how amazing Jared Leto as the joker is?Actually every single on of them is perfect
— Fatma (@FatmaSawalim22) November 17, 2015

also, Jared Leto's doing a pretty good job in really bringing out Joker's insane and psychotic character, from what i can see in the trailer
— shy (@K1TANAS) October 19, 2015