A new BBC documentary, Jared Leto: Hollywood's Dark Secret, presents disturbing allegations from four women who claim they were sexually abused by the actor and musician when they were underage. The film, directed by Jessica Sartenaer, also includes anonymous testimonies from former male co-workers who allege they witnessed a system set up by Leto to procure teenage girls from concerts.
Allegations Span Decades
The women, now in their 20s, 30s, and 40s, describe experiences they say occurred while they were minors. Their accounts include sexual assault, threatened sexual assault, sexualised grooming, and statutory rape. One woman recalls receiving sexually explicit phone calls from Leto when she was 16, followed by similar calls from a man she believes was Leto impersonating someone else. Another was allegedly procured by Leto's team and led to a hotel room.
These are not the first such claims. In 2005, the New York Post reported that Leto was “aggressively pursuing” underage girls at a New York hotel. In 2018, actor Dylan Sprouse and director James Gunn joked online about Leto's interest in teenagers. Last year, Air Mail journalist Elena Clavarino interviewed nine women who made similar allegations, which Leto's representatives denied.
Documentary's Impact and Timing
Leto declined to comment for the documentary, a departure from his previous robust denial. The film is released on BBC iPlayer and YouTube for maximum reach. Sartenaer said it took years to find women willing to speak on camera due to a culture of silence and fear of reprisal.
The documentary's timing may be significant. Leto's recent films have underperformed: Tron: Ares reportedly lost around $130 million, and Masters of the Universe is among 2025's biggest flops. Critics note that Hollywood often only acts against alleged predators when their commercial value declines.
Archive Footage and Context
The film includes archive footage of Leto at concerts with his arms around young girls, talk show clips where he boasts about sleeping with fans, and a disturbing moment where he quotes the Dazed and Confused line: “I keep getting older, but they stay the same age.” The cumulative effect is described as deeply unsettling.
Support for victims of sexual abuse is available: in the UK, Rape Crisis at 0808 500 2222; in the US, RAINN at 800-656-4673; in Australia, 1800Respect at 1800 737 732.
