Suicide Squad director David Ayer has confirmed a fan theory related to Jared Leto’s Joker – specifically, to one of his mysterious tattoos.

In the 2016 DC film, Leto’s character has many tattoos, including the word “damaged” on his forehead.

As it turns out, the ink is a nod to a previous encounter between the Joker and Batman, during which Batman knocks out the Harlequin of Hate’s teeth in an attempt to get revenge for Robin’s killing.

A fan recently explained the theory as such on Twitter: ”I think the damaged tattoo is actually pretty ingenious, but only for those who understand.

“Joker got the tattoo because Batman damaged his smile in a failed attempt at revenge for killing Robin.

“All with the intent to antagonise and infuriate Batman simply by seeing his face.”

Ayer retweeted the fan’s message, adding simply: “Exactly.”

The filmmaker further commented on Leto’s Joker in another tweet, writing: “For sure character creation is a tightrope. I took inspiration from the current DC comics. I find it incredible it’s still such a topic five years later.

“My heart breaks for Jared – he did magnificent work. Most of it remains unseen.”

Joaquin Phoenix took over the role of Joker in the eponymous film in 2019 – a performance that earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor.

A new Suicide Squad film, titled The Suicide Squad, is planned for 2021. The cast includes Margot Robbie, Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Pete Davidson, Taika Waititi, and more – but so far, not Leto.