Has Jared Leto Become a Cult Leader? Or Is It All Just a Very Twisted Joke?

As someone who has followed the music industry for decades and had the pleasure of meeting a fair share of eccentric characters, I must admit that Jared Leto‘s antics have left me both bewildered and amused. The stories about his “Echalon” and the alleged cult-like activities seem too bizarre to be true, yet, in this industry, one never knows what to expect.


Discussing Jared Leto can be quite challenging, let’s face it. The reason being that Jared Leto is a highly unconventional individual, and when we attempt to discuss him, his personal life, and his career, it becomes difficult to compose an impartial article because Leto’s life is anything but straightforward.

Jared Leto is unquestionably an exceptionally gifted artist across multiple platforms; while not all of his ventures have yielded success, he consistently delivers impressive performances, even when working with underdeveloped characters. Moreover, he boasts a strong reputation as a talented and renowned musician. However, due to his frequent involvement in various controversies, both personal and professional, people are often left uncertain about their perceptions of him.

In a recent article, MovieWeb delves into the possibility of Jared Leto being involved in a cult and whether he fits the profile of a cult leader. While media reports and comments from Leto himself suggest this might be factual, given his unconventional nature, it could also just be a cleverly crafted prank.

The tale surrounding the cult is in fact connected to the band Thirty Seconds to Mars, established by Leto and his brother Shannon in 1998. Although three other members joined the group since then, they have all departed the project, leaving the Leto brothers as the permanent members of the band. The genre? Alternative rock, so if you’re not a fan of that style, you might not be familiar with their music.

At the same time, it is a very prolific band, as their discography indicates:

Studio albums 6
EPs 3
Singles 19
Video albums 1
Music videos 17
Promotional singles 4

Beyond that, they’ve got a vast repertoire of recorded songs, and you can find the complete list right over here. Now, let me delve into an intriguing topic – the rumored connection between this band and the alleged cult. Interestingly, their Twitter profile (which wasn’t called X at that time in 2019) posted a message that fueled these speculations:

Yes, this is a cult 🔺 #MarsIsland

— THIRTY SECONDS TO MARS (@30SECONDSTOMARS) August 15, 2019

The photos show Leto and his group, all clad in white, with Leto giving off a distinctly Messianic vibe that seems somewhat unusual, if taken at face value. To the casual observer, this scene might appear to be a cult-like gathering – a charismatic leader, followers dressed identically, a remote location, and so forth.

The devoted fans who are particularly fond of Jared Leto and his musical groups are often referred to as “Echalon,” according to the article, and they show an intense passion, if all accounts are accurate. In 2020, a fan event was held in Croatia where participants could practice yoga and meet Leto, with prices reaching as high as $6,500; it’s not hard to imagine that similar events took place. It is said that he would organize a peculiar competition for the attendees, and the winner (it’s worth noting that most attendees are young women) was rumored to have the opportunity to spend time with Leto. However, even more troubling, if Leto’s statements are accurate, is his assertion that he would make promises of a private meeting, which some have interpreted as implying inappropriate behavior.

The audience is an incredibly devoted and emotional group of individuals. Attending a performance feels much like visiting Japan, where presents upon arrival are customary. You’ll receive all sorts of amazing souvenirs. Once I received an ear sent to me, which was quite peculiar. Entire ear, just like Van Gogh. The note simply said, “Are you listening?” I never discovered who it belonged to among the fans. (… ) I pierced a hole in it and wore it as a necklace. Please, though, do not send your whole body encased in a case.

Source: NME

It’s fortunate that we haven’t encountered this ear, but if what they say is accurate, it’s certainly troubling. Moreover, it seems likely that there are other similar instances, but we’ll leave that for now. So, the question arises: why is anyone questioning whether Leto is a rock’n’roll cult leader or some sort of Messiah? The answer lies with Leto himself!

According to the article, the actor once admitted that he often fabricates stories during interviews due to his creative mind. So, while it’s true that Jared Leto may have interacted with fans and set up camps, it’s also plausible that the idea of a cult is an invention, given his penchant for exaggeration. We can’t confirm or deny the existence of a cult, but considering Leto’s unpredictable nature, anything is possible.

Going back to 2013, in an old New York Times interview, Leto said the following:

In the music video for the song “Closer to the Edge,” the text “Indeed, this is a group with cult-like qualities” briefly appears.

Our fan base is deeply devoted, not some sort of cult. People who enjoy 30 Seconds to Mars truly love the band.

As I watched the crowd erupt with emotion, I must admit, it wasn’t entirely clear to me where the humor stopped and the seriousness started. You feel me?

Actually, let me give it a try again, but perhaps it’s more intended for those with a similar sense of humor.

You never use the word “fans.” People who like you are “the echelon.”

I find the term ‘fan’ rather off-putting; it seems to undermine the deep connection and appreciation these devoted supporters have for what they follow. Given the community, the bond, and the devotion of these individuals who truly grasp it, a more fitting label would be desirable.

Do I have to take any expensive classes or do any E-meter auditing to join?

Indeed, that’s correct. It’s essential for you to dance under the glow of the full moon and consume freshly offered beverages from a mature human.

Source: New York Times

It appears that Leto himself suggested his remarks might have been in jest, although the possibility remains slim but not entirely ruled out. If true, this could be an unusually grim marketing tactic, but then again, that’s just Jared Leto being unpredictable!

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2024-10-26 18:44