Move Over, Joker, Jared Leto in Talks to Play New Comic Book Character

Jared Leto is no stranger to bold career choices, and his next move might be switching comic characters and studios. According to Deadline, Leto is in talks to star in Sony's "Bloodshot" movie, based on the Valiant comic book character. The project is set to be directed by Dave Wilson, who -- Deadline noted -- is partnered with "Deadpool" director Tim Miller at Blur Studios.

Leto would play "Bloodshot" protagonist Angelo Mortalli. Here's more on him:

"Mortalli is a ruthless killer climbing the mob ranks when his crime family betrays him and has him framed for murder. He goes into federal witness protection but is betrayed by one of the FBI members guarding him. He is then kidnapped and taken to be part of an experimental procedure known as 'Project Rising Spirit.' His body is injected with microscopic computers called nanites. The nanites quickly go to work, rebuilding his brain and then the rest of his body, unexpectedly reviving Angelo but erasing his memory in the process. The nanites now fully control Angelo's body (manipulating blood flow, adrenaline levels etc.) giving him augmented reflexes and strength, enhanced hearing; the ability to heal rapidly, and control of electronic devices. Angry, violent and unsure of what he has become, he escapes. Taking the name Bloodshot, he begins the process of piecing together who he was."

Deadline reports that this is the second film from a five-picture deal between DMG and Valiant, with the first being "Harbinger," following the Valiant Comics super-powered outcast teens. "Sequels are planned for both 'Harbinger' and 'Bloodshot' before the title characters meet in 'Harbinger Wars,' which is based on Valiant's 2013 comic book crossover." They added that this is potentially the start of a powerful franchise for Sony and Leto.

Leto currently has the role of the Joker in the DC Extended Universe, and he can probably balance both roles if he is ultimately cast in "Bloodshot." (Josh Brolin is also doing double duty as Thanos in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and Cable in Fox's X-verse.) But it's not clear when the "Suicide Squad" star will return for more Warner Bros. films. "Suicide Squad 2" is in the works -- and Margot Robbie's Harley Quinn is set to return for "Gotham City Sirens," directed by their "Suicide Squad" director David Ayer -- but Leto has yet to be confirmed for either movie.

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