Jared Leto just learned about coronavirus crisis after 12-day retreat: 'We were totally isolated'

March 18, 2020 at 3:59 AM·3 min read

Jared Leto was in a quarantine pod and didn't even know it. The Oscar winner emerged from a nearly two-week retreat on Sunday only to learn about the severity of the coronavirus. Leto revealed on social media he had "no idea what was happening" in the world.

"Wow. 12 days ago I began a silent meditation in the desert," he wrote on Monday. "We were totally isolated. No phone, no communication etc. We had no idea what was happening outside the facility."

Leto said he "walked out... into a very different world."

"Mind blowing — to say the least," the 48-year-old continued. "I'm getting messages from friends and family all around the globe and catching up on what's going on. Hope you and yours are ok."

The Suicide Squad actor concluded by encouraging his 10 million followers to "stay inside" and "stay safe."

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A post shared by JARED LETO (@jaredleto) on Mar 16, 2020 at 10:26pm PDT

When Leto, who lives in Los Angeles, began his meditation retreat health officials confirmed on March 4 a total of seven cases for the county. On Monday, L.A. County’s total rose to 94. Officials have banned gatherings of more than 50 people and L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti announced a decision to close all movie theaters, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and gyms until March 31.

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A post shared by JARED LETO (@jaredleto) on Feb 24, 2020 at 9:27am PST

Leto's situation is similar to what's going on with casts of Big Brother. The show, which finds contestants isolated from the outside world, is currently filming in Germany, Brazil and Canada. A spokesperson confirmed production will break protocol.

"The health and wellbeing of Big Brother Housemates is our priority. All current productions were informed last week that the usual format rules regarding outside news do not apply in this instance, and it was requested that they inform their respective housemates of the evolving situation regarding COVID-19," a rep announced. "The majority of Housemates have already been briefed and this process will be complete today (17th March)."

Contestants on Big Brother Germany will be informed Tuesday of the coronavirus pandemic. The earliest cast members entered the house on Feb. 6. The participants will be allowed to ask questions and view video messages from relatives as Germany appears to be on the verge of a lockdown.

For the latest news on the evolving coronavirus outbreak, follow along here. According to experts, people over 60 and those who are immunocompromised continue to be the most at risk. If you have questions, please reference the CDC and WHO’s resource guides.

What to do if you think you have the coronavirus
What are the symptoms of coronavirus?
Glossary of public health terms to stay informed

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