The Leonardo Thread

[FearlessLeader]

Why doesn't Leo have one of these yet?

I have wrote why Leonardo is my favorite Turtle so many times in so many places but really Michael Dooney summed it up for me perfectly in a quote from him from Fan Expo in Canada a few years ago:

"I think I'm with Jim, I've always liked Leo for a lot of the same reasons, I've always liked the idea, I don't think he's so much serious; he's got to be a notch above the other guys. Just to kind of keep them in line and when you think about it and I don't think Pete has ever committed to the fact that they are biological brothers and biologically the same age I have always though of them as that way. So for each of them to be so distinctly individual and for him to act like the oldest one even though he's not really I think that is a strong character point.

Taken from this video here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZPRMxmk1AU

[Powder]

OT Leo is what made him my favorite, as that's what I was first exposed to. I love him there, though I'll agree that he does have his dull moments. Even Cam Clark said *note that I'm paraphrasing* "All I ever really got to say was 'Turtles fight with honor!' & 'We've got to do something!' ". In Archie he's more or less the same, and appreciated the same. I loved how emotionally in touch & spiritual Leo was in the first film, and in parts of the comics. The Leo I like most is one who meditates. I'm hoping to get the shot of him meditating against the tree from the first film tattooed on me one day. 2k3 was pretty much a spot on amalgamation of Mirage & OT, so he's definitely a top player. I named my album after a characteristic we both share, taking on others burdens. In one of the City At War episodes Splinter says to Leo "My son, you bear the weight of the world on your shoulders." (or something to that degree) & I tend to do the same. I also try to model myself after Leo's good characteristics at times, as he's what I've always aspired to be. Proud, noble, honorable, loyal, spiritually and emotionally in touch with himself, fearless, loving, & so forth. In my eyes he's got all the qualities an ideal person should. I have some of those, but not all. Nobody's perfect! He's been my idol since I was little. Some find imaginary idols stupid, I don't. Blue is my favorite color, swords are the raddest weapon, too.

ANYWAY, after all that sidetracking...

In image he's kinda just there, that's cool. I liked the character growth that Mikey got most of all from the series, and the attention was more or less focused on all the right things anyway. In the Next Mutation he was alright, a little indecisive about himself though, maybe. Sometimes he was overly serious, other times too goofy. I guess that's the writers fault. Thought he looked awesome though, and the double edged swords were kinda neat. TMNT gave a fairly accurate depiction but he was a little too fearless leader for my taste. I'm sure I don't need to elaborate on that one. He always played well in games, the swords have good reach.

Overall... it's a hard choice to make. Picking a favorite iteration, that is. I guess I'm gonna go with the first film version, though.
He seems the best there, I suppose, because he's a little bit of all Leos there. If that makes sense.







In case you couldn't tell, Leonardo has been and always will be, my favorite turtle.

[Icegaze]

Where do I begin.

There is so much to be said about Leonardo despite what many on these boards seem to think; I've read various posts saying Leo is a "boring" character. Really?

I know it's a question of opinion (and TMNT version/medium) but Leo has always been the most interesting turtle for me. He is calm, passionate about what he loves which are his siblings, master and ninja arts. He is very respectful and good at what he does (his ninjutsu/kenjutsu attributes are what attracted me to him at first). He also has a very strong code of honour in the old fashioned way. And most importantly, he constantly burdens himself with expectations, whether they were put on him or not. He is always ready to make sacrifices. I admire his virtue.

I'm really glad that at the age of 4-5 I picked Leo to be my favourite turtle. The colour blue is my favourite but I cannot quite remember if this was because Leo was my favourite turtle or if I chose Leo because blue was already my favourite colour. Teehee. I guess that will remain a life-long mystery for me. :tgrin:

All in all, Leo will always have my vote. I wish Nick's version will do him great justice. I already have high expectations...

[Jester]

Ahh Leo. What's to say. He's the TMNT equivalent of Cyclops of the X-men only a bit more tolerable. As a Raphie fan boy, of course Leo is on the other end of the spectrum. I like him 3rd followed only in recent years by Mikey, because lets face it 2k3's Mikey could get on your nerves. I'll admit, 4kids Leo was better then the OT Leo, who was very dull and at the time was my least favorite Turtle. With the new series Leo got some depth, we saw how he dealt with failure and worked harder. We know he cares for his brothers and that's why he rides them so hard.

[deadpoolRKO]

Leonardo has always been my favorite , I admire his leadership , his seriousness , Blue is my favorite color , I love him in the live action movies , especially the first one. I always wanted to be like him. Raph is my second favorite because he's who i relate to the most. Im easily frustrated , impatient , spontaneous , ect.

Leo has all the qualities i strive to have.

[Icegaze]

The following video pretty much summarises what I think of Leo, especially battle-wise. http://revision3.com/deathbattle/tmnt

Warning: the content around the mid-end of the video is somewhat violent.

LEOOOOOO!!!

[Donnie]

The following video pretty much summarises what I think of Leo, especially battle-wise. http://revision3.com/deathbattle/tmnt


There goes 9 minutes of my life that I will never get back. That was horrid...those guys are annoying! They clearly don't know much about the comics.

Concerning Leonardo, I think he's great. Some find him overly annoying in his discipline habits, but I find it rather admirable. The amont of focus he puts towards his training is highly commendable. I think my favorite adaption of Leo would have to be the 2k3. I think he's a great balance between Mirage and movie 1.

[bridgegrn]

There was only a taste of it in TMNT but I like the idea of the pressure behind Leo. Splinter looks to him as the one to lead the way for his brothers in battle. I'm sure he recognizes the turtle's 'weaknesses' (Raph's anger, Don's lack of a killer instinct, Mikey's laid back personality) and saw Leo as the one most likely to be able to keep everyone focused and, well, alive. But can you imagine the pressure of being put out there and being expected to have the answers, and the plan, and to have to guide 3 very distinct personalities through life or death situations. People tend to **** on Leo for being the straight edge but really, would you act differently if you were trying to save lives, keep your brothers alive and focused on the mission while avoiding an army of ninja assassins looking for blood?

[Sword Slicin' Leo]

Ahh Leo. What's to say. He's the TMNT equivalent of Cyclops of the X-men only a bit more tolerable. As a Raphie fan boy, of course Leo is on the other end of the spectrum. I like him 3rd followed only in recent years by Mikey, because lets face it 2k3's Mikey could get on your nerves. I'll admit, 4kids Leo was better then the OT Leo, who was very dull and at the time was my least favorite Turtle. With the new series Leo got some depth, we saw how he dealt with failure and worked harder. We know he cares for his brothers and that's why he rides them so hard.

Bull$hlt! Cyclops is a self absorbed douchebag....Leo is the man,end of story

[Donnie]

Bull$hlt! Cyclops is a self absorbed douchebag....Leo is the man,end of story

Easy there, tiger. I never thought of Cyclops in that way, Cyke is a very capable leader who has his own issues that he has to deal with. Yeah, there's differences between him and Leonardo, but there's also similarities.

[Sword Slicin' Leo]

Easy there, tiger. I never thought of Cyclops in that way, Cyke is a very capable leader who has his own issues that he has to deal with. Yeah, there's differences between him and Leonardo, but there's also similarities.

Thats a fair assumption...But Cylcops is'nt really a one on one fighter... just X's lil bitch LOL!

[FearlessLeader]

I never really thought Cyclops was like Leo at all (pass the obvious they are both leaders of teams of mutants) they at least in my opinion have vastly different personalities and outlooks on life, if anyone in the Marvel universe is like Leonardo (and this is once again just my opinion) I think it's Captain America.

I just always found his sense of justice and his caring, protective nature reminded me the most of Leo out of everyone.

:tgrin:

[Sword Slicin' Leo]

I never really thought Cyclops was like Leo at all (pass the obvious they are both leaders of teams of mutants) they at least in my opinion have vastly different personalities and outlooks on life, if anyone in the Marvel universe is like Leonardo (and this is once again just my opinion) I think it's Captain America.

:tgrin:

I can agree with that

[Donnie]

Thats a fair assumption...But Cylcops is'nt really a one on one fighter... just X's lil bitch LOL!

Actually, Cyclops is trained in martial arts.:)

[Leonardo Mystic]

Where do I start? Oh, gosh, I may never be able to say enough about him.

Leonardo has been my favorite since I was six or seven. It started with the '87 cartoon. While I don't quite know all the reasons why I attached to him out of all the turtles then, I think it had something to do with the fact he always wanted to do what was right.

He was always trying to help people and it appealed to me. He sort of represented the Saturday morning cartoon hero for me. He also always seemed like he got the short end of the stick a lot and I identified with him that way too because I know what it was like. I also thought twin katana was the coolest weapon and though blue wasn't my favorite color at the time, it is now.

It wasn't until the first movie that I saw other sides to his personality, like his spiritual nature and the meditation, and a lot more emotion in general. He just didn't feel quite so... flat to me as like I was watching in the OT. Consequently, it is this Leo until 2k3 that became my favorite version. There was a period of several years, however, when I lost interest in the Turtles from 1996 until 2004, about almost a year after the 4Kids' series debuted.

It didn't take long after watching a few episodes though for me to remember why Leo had been my favorite. Even that I had grown older, I was still able to easily identify with him. It's also a little disturbing because I could watch him and go "Wow... I've done that." Especially his ability at taking a problem and letting it consume him. City At War comes to mind "If one bears the weight of the world, all one will accomplish is to be crushed by the weight" and then half of Season 4 all the way up to the Ancient One. It's a lot less painful after watching through it several times after the first, but I still really don't like to see him that way. I'm always glad when I reach the Ancient One episode.

2k3 Leo had so much depth to his character and it is why he is now my favorite version. When I finally found out about the Mirage comics and read those, I liked him a lot there too, but 4Kids' just seems to have a perfect balance. He's okay in TMNT, but he's a little OOC at times to me.

His strong sense of honor and nobility I have always admired about him. He's loyal, kind, gentle, compassionate, loving, protective and spiritual. He's usually calm and focused, brilliant at strategy and thinking on his feet.

*laughs* See? I get going and I usually can't stop. Like I said before, I may never be able to say enough about him.

To sum it, Leonardo has always and forever will be a part of me.

[TheCanadiandrome]

Leonardo, both from the OT and 2K3 series..awesome!

[Doc_ock_4mugen]

While not my favorite Turtle, I can see the appeal Leo has. As a Leader he HAS to carry his team (issues, burdens, strengths, weaknesses, the whole thing) in order to survive. That's a HUGE amount of pressure. To some he may seem plain, but he's the Crust. without him all you have is a mess!

[Sword Slicin' Leo]

Actually, Cyclops is trained in martial arts.:)

I have never seen any sign of that...But i only watched the Fox show....never really got into comics...

[Donnie]

I have never seen any sign of that...But i only watched the Fox show....never really got into comics...

Yeah, in the cartoon he didn't do much hand to hand as far as I can remember, but in the comics he's a trained martial artist and a hell of a fighter.

[Redeemer]

Bull$hlt! Cyclops is a self absorbed douchebag....Leo is the man,end of story

Yeah sounds about right :lol:

These r some great post, I agree with a lot of what u guys have said. Leo is my hands down favorite always has been. I loved Leo and TMNT sense the OT and the first movie in the early 90's My favorite adaption of Leo is the 2k3 series, loved him. I will admit the OT Leo is Dull during season 3-6, but had his moments. And I think Cared more about the dual Katanas he carried and less about the character himself.

My reason-Passion, Leadership, Ability to overcome adversity, honor, respect, his screw u mantality (When it comes to failure) thats what I love most about him probably.

[Sword Slicin' Leo]

... his screw u mantality (When it comes to failure) thats what I love most about him probably.

LMFAO!!! I love it!

[Redeemer]

LMFAO!!! I love it!

I dont know if this is u agreeing with me or jst laughing in sarcasm?:ohwell:

[Sword Slicin' Leo]

Me agreeing...

[Guitar_Raph]

This is how I picture Leo.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v330/PCenter/Ninja%20Turtles%20The%20Next%20Mutation/FormalLeoonvibes.jpg
Jammin on the vibes.

[Donnie]

This is how I picture Leo.



So you're just into Turtles with instruments?

[Oniri]

As someone who use to hate Cyclops with a burning passion and think little of Leo, I actually do see the similarities because I found a new respect for each of them in a similar way. Though they are very different in personality, they both not only take their job as a leader REALLY seriously, but they also have a fear of failure.

Both characters are responsible for the people that they REALLY care about and worry that the smallest mistake could get someone killed (which is very possible in both universes). Understandably, this fear drives both of these characters to the point that their personalities are kind of screwed (Leo=boring Cyclops=douche).

That is what I really feel and connect with Leo on. If I had that much responsibility on my shoulders, I admit that I would probably cry myself to sleep at night. I don't deal with pressure well.

[Guitar_Raph]

So you're just into Turtles with instruments?
That's how my interest in TMNT began, Coming Out of Their Shells.

As Garfield would think, "Whoever thought of TMNT playing as a band in a stage show, should be dragged out into the street & shot."[

[Icegaze]

That's how my interest in TMNT began, Coming Out of Their Shells.


*ROTMFL*
Sorry, I just...

http://i50.tinypic.com/2vv85fd.gif http://i50.tinypic.com/2vv85fd.gif http://i50.tinypic.com/2vv85fd.gif

[RiseAbove873]

Leonardo has always been my favorite TMNT too. He's the leader, he wears blue, and his weapons of choice are katanas. He's also the most skilled of the team. He's just awesome!

[ryukenden]

Don't really like comparing Leo to Cyclops.

He seemed to be a typical do-gooder in the Fred Wolf toon and I fondly remembered the episode where the other Turtles tried to step up as leader but couldn't. Considering that Don did bark out orders quite frequently even with Leo present.

[Ninja Turtles 25 Years]

Leonardo has always been my favorite , I admire his leadership , his seriousness , Blue is my favorite color , I love him in the live action movies , especially the first one. I always wanted to be like him. Raph is my second favorite because he's who i relate to the most. Im easily frustrated , impatient , spontaneous , ect.

Leo has all the qualities i strive to have.

We both have a lot in common with the Leo interest.

[Ninja Turtles 25 Years]

Ever since I was age 5 when I was first introduced to TMNT 1987 by my half brother's half brothers I was a Leonardo fan. I didn't understand why until I got older, but there was something about him at the time is why I dug him so much. My favorite color is blue, my favorite weapon of choice is the sword, I like his Cam Clark voice, he kicks major butt, he's a born leader and other somethings that I have in common with the Leo-mister.

You know even on job interviews when they ask me "If you can pick any character from a TV show to best reflect who you are, who would it be and why?" My answer is Leonardo, because he is a team leader, loyal, dependable, supportive, committed, fights the good fight, and confident. I know jobs want those kind of positive characteristics from a candidate.

Also who is this Cyclops you're all talking about? The only time I ever heard the name Cyclops is in the episode The Big Rip Off, and it doesn't seem you're talking about that.

[Jester]

Also who is this Cyclops you're all talking about? The only time I ever heard the name Cyclops is in the episode The Big Rip Off, and it doesn't seem you're talking about that.
The leader of the X-men...shoots optic blasts from his eyes?

[Ninja Turtles 25 Years]

The leader of the X-men...shoots optic blasts from his eyes?

Well that explains a lot. I never followed super heros. Just Ninja Turtles. If you asked me anything about Batman, Superman, Captain America, X-Man, Fantasic 4, I wouldn't know anything about it. I was just never into super heros.

[Donnie]

Ok, I'm taking a little break from all of this NICK madness...

Question for you Leo fans...

What do you think about his portrayal in TMNT III? I know this movie is shunned around the boards, but I really don't mind it *for what it is* and it's no cheesier than an OT episode, really. Concerning Leo, how do you think he was handled?

Starting with the exterior, I really liked Leo's suit, and especially the dark blue bandanna they went with. I wasn't a fan of the lighter blue's we got in the first two movies, although first movie Leo is of course far superior in character. Personality wise, I think sometimes he was just "there" and only when Raphael spoke to him as a "superior," if you will, is when you're like "oh, okay, he's the leader." Speaking of Raph...hey Jester, did you think Raphy was portrayed a little more alike to his OT counterpart in this flick?

That being said though, I think if not for the rest of the movie that final battle with Leo and Lord N. was pretty badass. I just hated the ending when Leo cut off his 'tail. I mean, it was funny, but it made Leo out to be somewhat bi-polar. He gets really angry during that battle, grinding his teeth and stuff, and then just snaps back into OT joke-ster.

Thoughts on TMNT III Leo?

[ryukenden]

Other than giving CPR to that Yoshi kid and clashing steel with Lord Norinaga, he was just there.

[Donnie]

Other than giving CPR to that Yoshi kid and clashing steel with Lord Norinaga, he was just there.

Yeah, that's what I was thinking for the most part. I liked him though. I think because Raphael was fairly mild in this movie and didn't majorly freak out at any point, it didn't give Leo enough spotlight to "be/act the leader," maybe?

Although he did display some quick thinking skills as leader when he thought up that "bluff" at the end against Walker.

[FearlessLeader]

Not being overly fond of the 3rd film personally I can't really make an in-depth analysis as I have only watched it a hand full of times compared to the other 3 films.

I will say one Leo part that always sticks with me is when the guys are trying to improve their riding skills and in the background you just see Leo ride by while standing on the back off the horse. And one of his brothers just says something like "I really hate that guy."

It gave me a good laugh and is probably one of my favorite moments of the movie.

[deadpoolRKO]

i agree that he was somewhat bi-polar in that third one. especially in that last battle.


Also , they made him better than the other turtles , like when they're all trying to ride the horses and falling and getting embarrassed.

Then you see leo ride by standing up already having mastered the art of horse riding. lol.

[Bjarni]

While Donatello has been my favorite for years, but recently Leonardo has become my favorite.
Also if there's a solo Turtle story, the Leo ones are the best.

[Julie]

I love Leonardo, he's my favourite turtle and always will be! He rules! 8)

[Bauer536]

Leo rocks! I love this turtle. As a skillful ninja, he is the best with his katanas. My favorite color is blue and I am a disciplined kind of guy. I think that’s a reason why he’s my favorite. Still, I have a lot to say. Leo in the OT, was not bad, but not great. Leo in the 2k3 toon, my apologies: worst depiction ever! Leo is supposed to be strong and intelligent, and I felt they made him very weak and idiotic in that toon. I also hated it when they gave him a dark side that he had to overcome during season 4. It was a cool idea, but this went on for about 10 or 12 episodes. I simply thought to myself, “If this goes on too long, he’s going to lose popularity.” Plus, the guy who did his voice (I know you might like him) made Leo sound like a whiney baby. In my opinion, Michael Sinterniklaas was the worst voice of all Leonardos. James Arnold Taylor, however, was the best! He made Leo sound like a mature and upstanding guy. Every time I hear him as the Green Arrow on Batman: Brave and the Bold, I just picture Taylor saying the lines as the turtle. No, I did not want his butt kicked by Raphael when he said, “I’m better than you!” I know he’s supposed to be humble, but he is better than Raph - he is good at controlling his temper and using his brain, unlike the hothead. Jason Biggs – sounds like a great choice to play him. Overall, what can I say. He may not be perfect, but he’s perfect enough to be called a hero.

Just to add: comparing him to Captain America is better than choosing Cyclops. I just feel that Leo is like Superman a little, even though he does not have powers. Maybe he’s a little bit of Batman due to leadership and martial arts skills. What do you think?

[Bjarni]

I also hated it when they gave him a dark side that he had to overcome during season 4. It was a cool idea, but this went on for about 10 or 12 episodes. I simply thought to myself, “If this goes on too long, he’s going to lose popularity.” Plus, the guy who did his voice (I know you might like him) made Leo sound like a whiney baby. In my opinion, Michael Sinterniklaas was the worst voice of all Leonardos.

I was very happy with Leonardo's development as a character in the 4Kids season, I would hate if all the characters in a 8 year long cartoon would never evolve. The fact that he didn't get a weapon during the Ninja Tribunal killed me! It was great writing and I loved seeing Leonardo step up as the leader instead of just having it as a role he was always born into.
I also loved Michael's voice work. Though he was totally challenging a teenager more than a leader, which I thought was fine as well.

The only Leonardo I haven't been fully happy with was the OT incarnation in Turtles Forever. I really can't imagine Jason Biggs doing the voice, but I hope they chose him for his acting abilities.

Also, I wouldn't say Leo is anything like Batman, because no matter how many sidekicks or leagues he has, Batman. works. alone. Leonardo is a part of an entity, which is why I think people are maybe comparing him more to Cyclops. Plus, they are both mutants.

[BubblyShell22]

I have always loved Leo as my favorite Turtle. I think 2K3 was the best portrayal of him. Michael S. did a great job with the voice, and I sympathized with him in season four because I knew how he felt. I was feeling that way, too, because of college. Sometimes, I get depressed and feel like a failure when things do't go my way. So, I know how he feels in that regard.

[Bauer536]

I understand. I know heroes can face their failures, but I thought it went on too long. I wouldn’t mind this storyline only if it took place in five episodes. Still, we have our own opinions. I will say this though, I hated when he met the Ancient One. To me, that sensei was like a crude and nastier version of Yoda. Splinter is more like Yoda, not this guy. Plus, the episode was unoriginal, completely ripping off Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back by the end with the rock monster. You should have seen my reaction. I was like, “Stolen, you have. Abandon you, I will.”

[Julie]

Leo in the 2k3 toon, my apologies: worst depiction ever! Leo is supposed to be strong and intelligent, and I felt they made him very weak and idiotic in that toon.***

Don't say that, there's nothing 'idiotic' in the 2003's Leonardo, well I think he was the best of all the versions of him.
Yea, I didn't like Leo's attitude in season 4 but I understand him very much after he got the psychological trauma due to the encounter with the Shredder. But I still love him. Him and Mikey are my top favourites. :)

[Bjarni]

I understand him very much after he got the psychological trauma due to the encounter with the Shredder.
Wasn't he traumatized because a person he considered an ally (Karai) stabbed him with a sword, almost killing him?

[Bauer536]

I don’t remember him being stabbed. All I know is that is why as a ninja, Leo is like Superman or Jack Bauer. He cannot fall in love with anyone when he’s working. If he does, that person or the people around him get hurt. That’s why Nickelodeon should do a few storylines on Leo and Karai’s relationship at a minimum. If there is too much, then our action comedy will end up as a soap opera. I’m not trying to say I don’t want drama; I just don’t want ridiculous drama.

[Julie]

Wasn't he traumatized because a person he considered an ally (Karai) stabbed him with a sword, almost killing him?

That's not the reason. Leo just blamed himself for not being able to save his family, because they almost got killed by the Shredder, well, and Karai - hmm, I don't think she was a good person at all, I hate her.

[ssjup81]

Just so you know, I can only talk about Mirage/Archie/OT Leo, so here goes.

As a child, I always found Leo to be kind of a boring character, because he was the straight man who didn't have any quirks to him, like Raph or Mikey. I felt the same about Donny as a kid. The Abbot of Abbot & Costello. The Hardy of Laurel & Hardy. Leo by himself, just didn't work for me.

Anywho, one thing I do love about the character is his discipline and loyalty to doing what's right. In that regard, he was a great character. For the OT series, two of my fav eps is Renaissance Turtle and the one with the snakes. I also like Combat Land because Leo learned that he actually does need the other three around. I also loved him in Leonardo Loosens Up. It showed how much of a strategist he could be.

Anywho, Leo's a nice character, just too "good" for me.

[FearlessLeader]

Bauer536 I won't try to change your opinion of the 2K3 show because everyone in entitled to whatever they think I would just like to point out a few things to you.

You hating the Ancient One episode because it is a rip off of Star Wars. You do realize pretty much in every media in the Turtles have parodied something else?? Heck the entire idea for the series was a parody of a few different comic series. If you look in the "Turtle Tuesdays" thread on here by the AVGN last weeks points out all the different sci-fi and horror films that were parodied by the OT and a lot of 2K3 is the same. I love the end of season three because it completely rips off one of the Star Trek films.

As for your anger at Leo in season four of 2K3. I can understand you not liking it, I certainly don't enjoy watching my favorite character hate himself and tear himself apart, but it's the being he becomes afterwards that makes that 13 episode arch worth it. Leo was young, and with each defeat we see him have to pull himself together regroup and become a stronger man and leader. First in Shredder Strikes part 1 where he is tricked by Saki, then in Shredder Strikes Back part 1 where Shredder and the Foot decimate him.

But nothing hurts him more then what happens to him in Exodus and that is because not only is he hurt, but he feels his inabilities also place his family and even the universe at risk. Quote taken from the episode "Sons of the Silent Age":

Leo: "Yeah well, I don't know.... well I guess I do. It's just I can't stop thinking about the last time we faced off against the Shredder. That the only way we could have defeated him was by blowing ourselves up. I couldn't protect my brother, my Master. I feel like such a complete failure! And no matter how I try to rationalize it, justify it, it always comes down to the fact that I wasn't good enough!

You like Leo because he is a hero, well he can't be one without the ability to grow and mature. Even the 2007 movie which I can see you really like actually have Leo go through a similar process in the prequel comics that lead up to the film. Leonardo is fairly lost and uncertain of himself or his place in his family and he goes out into the world saves people and tries to figure out who he is. He even meets the Ancient One in that universe and is told fairly similar things to him as in the 2k3 series. 2007 Leo and 2k3 are so alike and actually walk very similar paths that is surprises me that you hate one and love the other??

Also as for the "I'm better then you" line and Leo being better than Raphael. Leonardo didn't, in my opinion say that because he even believes he is better then his brother. Leonardo was struggling to figure out if he really was a good leader for the Turtles. When Raphael told him that they didn't need him and that they had gotten along great with him gone it cut through Leo like a knife. It was pretty much everything he feared happening thrown in his face. So he hit's Raphael back in the same place for him. By telling him he is better then he is, the one thing that I really thing Raphael fears.

Neither is better then the other and I will go so far as to say that the two function terribly without the support of the other. Leo and Raph have a very ying and yang effect to each other. Leonardo tends to keep Raphael from acting too rash and getting himself or anyone else killed. Raphael tends to help Leo from turning his self criticism to deeply inward and makes him face his issues head on versus just brooding about them.

Basically I am just trying to say that in the end Leonardo is who he is. He has faults he will face problems. He was never really written to be a "super hero" he was written to be a guy that was raised by an honorable man who instills these same values in him and it makes him want to help people and better himself daily.

And I think I am going to end this with a quote from Usagi from "Samurai Tourist" cause I like it and I feel it kind of fits everything I wrote about here.

Usagi: "Failure, fear, in the lives we lead these things are enviable. How we deal with them, that is the true test of our character."

[Bauer536]

You’ve explained it so well. It makes me wonder if I am looking at it the wrong way. It has been hard for me to get past the voices and animation of that show. Something about the voices bothers me. The animation was too bright, and I felt it should have had more variety. It was such a distraction to me, maybe this kept me from understanding what was going on. Thanks for the response.

[FearlessLeader]

You’ve explained it so well. It makes me wonder if I am looking at it the wrong way. It has been hard for me to get past the voices and animation of that show. Something about the voices bothers me. The animation was too bright, and I felt it should have had more variety. It was such a distraction to me, maybe this kept me from understanding what was going on. Thanks for the response.

I will also not say I am 100% right but I have re-watched and re-read all this stuff a lot and talked with a few of my friends about it, so I feel pretty secure throwing it out there as my opinion at least.

I love the 2k3 show, wish I could somehow spread this love to you, but I can see you just don't like it which is totally cool in my book. I personally can't stand Next Mutation, mostly because I hate Leo's portrayal in that series so I understand were you are coming from.

Still I love any chance to talk about my favorite Turtle so I was happy to reply :tgrin:

[Julie]

No matter what people say about Leo, he will always be the best! :D

[Jester]

No matter what people say about Leo, he will always be the best! :D
Unless you're a Raph, Don, or Mike fan....:D

[Julie]

Unless you're a Raph, Don, or Mike fan....:D

LOL, I'm a Leo and also Mikey fan. :lol:

[Bjarni]

GamesFAQ had a poll the other day, which TMNT is your favorite?

Leonardo won with like 50% more votes then any other Turtle or something...

[Jester]

GamesFAQ had a poll the other day, which TMNT is your favorite?

Leonardo won with like 50% more votes then any other Turtle or something...
I'd really like to see that.

[Koi]

I bet Don came in last.

[Jester]

I bet Don came in last.
Sadly you're probably right. Donnie never gets any love.

[Donnie]

Sadly you're probably right. Donnie never gets any love.

Speak for yourself! :P

Honestly, I don't really mind Donny's usually last. It makes being a Don fan all the more special to me. :D

[Jester]

You're one to root for the underdog, ain't ya? :D

[Koi]

Mikey and Leo always seem to be the leads when it comes to poles. I usually only see Raph and Don as the lowest. Usually Don.

[Donnie]

You're one to root for the underdog, ain't ya? :D

Heh, yep. I've been that way my whole life. When I was into Power Rangers (keyword: was!) I liked the Blue Ranger. In Ghostbusters, I liked Egon. In X-Men, Beast. You get the point. :)

[Jester]

Heh, yep. I've been that way my whole life. When I was into Power Rangers (keyword: was!) I liked the Blue Ranger. In Ghostbusters, I liked Egon. In X-Men, Beast. You get the point. :)
Wow...I also liked Billy and Beast. Never watched The Real Ghostbusters, but I like Egon pretty well in the movies. Guess we're more alike than i realized...despite my being a Raph fan (though Donnie is a very close second.)

[Donnie]

Wow...I also liked Billy and Beast. Never watched The Real Ghostbusters, but I like Egon pretty well in the movies. Guess we're more alike than i realized...despite my being a Raph fan (though Donnie is a very close second.)

Indeed my friend!

[Krang]

I'd really like to see that.
Here's the link: http://www.gamefaqs.com/poll/index.html?poll=4340

[Jester]

Here's the link: http://www.gamefaqs.com/poll/index.html?poll=4340
Thank you sir.
Who is your favorite Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle?
Donatello (purple, bo staff) 25.55% 16734
Leonardo (blue, katana) 32.35% 21186
Michelangelo (orange, nunchaku) 20.93% 3708
Raphael (red, sai) 21.16% 13855
TOTAL VOTES 65483

[Donnie]

Michelangelo, last? Wow.

[FearlessLeader]

It makes me wonder because it's a video game board if this was based more on which character you enjoyed playing during the games?? Because I know a lot of people like playing Leo because he's easy to beat people up with :tlol:

Because honestly I am surprised Mike is last :tconfuse:

Not that I don't think Leo deserves the number one spot of course :tgrin:

[ssjup81]

Michelangelo, last? Wow.Maybe it is based on the games themselves, as someone else pointed out, and not necessarily the character. Leonardo has always been the most balanced of the turtles when it came to fighting style (I noticed) and Donny was always good because of his long-range attacks.

Mikey is usually the fastest, but, his range is very short, just like Raph who's strong, but also has short-range attacks which meant playing with both were difficult and more of a hassle to use compared to Leo and Donny, imo.

[Julie]

It really SUCKS that Mikey takes the last place there, he's my favourite turtle. :(

[Weapon X]

Oh man Leonardo was my favorite as a kid, he had the blue mask, the swords, and....well I guess that's about it. I cant really think of why else I liked him when I was younger. I guess at that age character strengths don't really matter that much.

I think in the first two seasons of the original toon Leo is really cool. He has a deep commanding voice, he does indeed lead as the song suggests, and he just comes off as having a level head. Then Cam Clarke made his voice higher almost whiny and he was just there to "spoil the fun". I start liking him more again during the 7th season.

Raph has probably been my favorite for the last almost decade, all thanks to the Fred Wolf Series.

[ssjup81]

Oh man Leonardo was my favorite as a kid, he had the blue mask, the swords, and....well I guess that's about it. I cant really think of why else I liked him when I was younger. I guess at that age character strengths don't really matter that much.

I think in the first two seasons of the original toon Leo is really cool. He has a deep commanding voice, he does indeed lead as the song suggests, and he just comes off as having a level head. Then Cam Clarke made his voice higher almost whiny and he was just there to "spoil the fun". I start liking him more again during the 7th season.

Raph has probably been my favorite for the last almost decade, all thanks to the Fred Wolf Series.

I'm not sure if this is true or not, but I agree about early Leo. He was more commanding as opposed to, "He ruined our fun" Leo, like they seemed to portray him later. I liked his deep voice in the earlier seasons. Anyway, like I started to say, not sure if it's true or not, but Leo was changed in this way to play up Mikey and Raph, as those two were the popular ones with the kids at the time. Can anyone here verify that?

[Bjarni]

Here's the link: http://www.gamefaqs.com/poll/index.html?poll=4340

Ah crud... I was going to post a picture!

http://images.hugi.is/myndasogur/161862.png

[Bauer536]

I recently just thought of this, and I have a question. I cannot recall, but when have we seen Leonardo cry? I remember he must have in the very first movie, but I’m stuck on the rest. Did he cry on the OT? Besides Raph, did Leo cry on the 2k3 series? Did he even cry on the TNM? I hope the writers can show that in the new series. Leonardo is a mutant, but inside, he is human. I’m just curious. Feel free to post any clips of this kind.

[FearlessLeader]

I recently just thought of this, and I have a question. I cannot recall, but when have we seen Leonardo cry? I remember he must have in the very first movie, but I’m stuck on the rest. Did he cry on the OT? Besides Raph, did Leo cry on the 2k3 series? Did he even cry on the TNM? I hope the writers can show that in the new series. Leonardo is a mutant, but inside, he is human. I’m just curious. Feel free to post any clips of this kind.

In Return to New York part 3 of the 2k3 show Leonardo cries:

Splinter is thrown from Shredder's Skyscraper and Leonardo leaps out of the building using a rope or grappling hook to dive down and swing from and save him. He swings over and lands on the roof of a neighboring building where he leans Sensei against a wall with his walking stick and then this scene plays out:

Leo: "You're going to be okay Master Splinter. We'll get you help. I will get the others."
Splinter: "No... Leonardo worry not! This is no longer about me."
Leo: "Master Splinter I...."
Splinter: "You must return to the battle, protect your brothers, defeat the Shredder. I will be there with you in spirit. Now go! Leave me."
Leo: "No Master Splinter!'
Splinter: "I know you will lead your Brothers well. My Son.....my son."
Leo: "It's going to be alright, we'll be back for you I promise just hang on."


And then you see Leo wipe away a few tears before he turns back towards the roof of Shredder's building with a growl. One of my favorite scenes from the series.

Leonardo in my opinion tends to get the most openly emotional when it comes to his Father. It could be joy when praised or showing pain when he doesn't live up to his expectation.

He doesn't cry, but it does make me sad when after Splinter's funeral one of the last shots in the comic is Leo just standing alone, staring out at the water looking completely lost. :tsad:

[Julie]

Leo's definitely one of the most emotional turtles (along with Raph), he always cares for his bros and family in general, he finds his family more important than himself, he has a huge responsibility on his shoulders to protect them. He's always ready to kick serious ass when he finds out that his family and friends are in dangerous situations, even he's ready to sacrifice his life for them and i really feel bad for him for taking a lot of pain on himself! That's why he's my favourite + I've got a silly crush on him for being hot and so heroic LOLz. XD
But I disagree that Leo is always widly popular and liked by many people, unfortunately; I just hate it when he gets REALLY bad and hateful opinions towards himself by some crazy fans (mainly Raph and Don fans) almost for nothing (just b'cause he's too good or as if "the most boring" etc.). I think he doesn't deserve to be hated and bashed, but some of his mistakes should be a bit criticized. ;)

[Bauer536]

Actually, I think Leo is popular in a sort of way. I remember asking about his fan-base to Dan Berger, who was part of Mirage. His response was, “It was pretty even all around, which is probably why the TMNT were so successful – there’s someone for anyone.” That’s why there are Leo lovers and haters, just like there are for the rest of the turtles. I, like you, get mad if favorite characters of mine are bashed.
Anyways, I saw the clip of Leonardo crying. I did not see tears. It almost looked like he was wiping his nose like he was having a cold. Plus Sinterniklaas’s voice tainted it a little for me. The voice is too much, and I think it’s not believable. I also don’t like the writing of the characters’ lines. To me after you say, “No Master Splinter!”, you don’t say, "It's going to be alright, we'll be back for you I promise just hang on." What Leo should have said was “Alright. I’ll go. . . I won’t fail you, sensei. Just remember, I’ll come back for you.” Sorry, sometimes I don’t like their dialogue, but the delivery wasn’t that good.
Plus, what funeral? Are we talking about the comic book issue where they burned Splinter’s body? I have that issue, and Leo does cry in the end. There are two shots of the tear that streams down his face.
Are there any other clips from any of the series?

[FearlessLeader]

Anyways, I saw the clip of Leonardo crying. I did not see tears. It almost looked like he was wiping his nose like he was having a cold. Plus Sinterniklaas’s voice tainted it a little for me. The voice is too much, and I think it’s not believable. I also don’t like the writing of the characters’ lines. To me after you say, “No Master Splinter!”, you don’t say, "It's going to be alright, we'll be back for you I promise just hang on." What Leo should have said was “Alright. I’ll go. . . I won’t fail you, sensei. Just remember, I’ll come back for you.” Sorry, sometimes I don’t like their dialogue, but the delivery wasn’t that good.

I have decided I am just no longer going to talk to you about the 2k3 show because I don't think our opinions are ever going to agree. But he was definitely wiping at his eyes and not his beak (Leo's a turtle I don't think he has what would technically be considered a nose) The shot is too far away for tears to be seen, but wiping at the eyes implies tears, I mean that's what I would be wiping away if I made the same motion as him.


Plus, what funeral? Are we talking about the comic book issue where they burned Splinter’s body? I have that issue, and Leo does cry in the end. There are two shots of the tear that streams down his face.
Are there any other clips from any of the series?

Thank you for correcting me as that was totally my faulty memory at that part. I guess I just focused in so much on how alone and sad Leo looked in the last panel from that part that my brain forgot the two panel's before with the tear. Now it's even more depressing! :trazz:

[Bjarni]

“Alright. I’ll go. . . I won’t fail you, sensei. Just remember, I’ll come back for you.”
But that completely takes away the teenage part. The scene was showing that he is still a kid and losing his father is the scariest thing he can think of. At least that's what I thought.

Also, hearing Leonardo say "Alright.. I'll go" after a request from his wounded father and sensei to save his brothers from the Shredder seems very off-putting. But maybe that's just the way I'm reading it.

[Bauer536]

I apologize. I just didn’t like the end line. I know he’s like a kid since he’s a teenager. But Leonardo is supposed to be the most mature of his brothers. Also, I wouldn’t mind if tears rolled down his eyes a bit. I just thought everything happened too fast on this series.

[Bjarni]

I just thought everything happened too fast on this series.

Agreed. But seeing how terrible Fast Forward was, I'm happy that they rushed the good stories so we could get them.

[FearlessLeader]

I apologize. I just didn’t like the end line. I know he’s like a kid since he’s a teenager. But Leonardo is supposed to be the most mature of his brothers. Also, I wouldn’t mind if tears rolled down his eyes a bit. I just thought everything happened too fast on this series.

Leonardo is mature, but he's also 16 here. Even in Mirage Leonardo was still unsure of himself in his teens. He's a kid, I mean he is the most mature acting of all his brothers but he's still not even really a "man" yet.

As for the pacing, it always kind of rang true to me. In intense life and death battle situations things generally tend to happen really fast. Heck look at 24 for example and just how much happened in one 24 hour season.

The one exception to this in my opinion was the City at War episodes which I thought had terrible pacing. I feel they could have been longer and incorporated a lot more story then they did.

[Bauer536]

Leonardo is mature, but he's also 16 here. Even in Mirage Leonardo was still unsure of himself in his teens. He's a kid, I mean he is the most mature acting of all his brothers but he's still not even really a "man" yet.

As for the pacing, it always kind of rang true to me. In intense life and death battle situations things generally tend to happen really fast. Heck look at 24 for example and just how much happened in one 24 hour season.

The one exception to this in my opinion was the City at War episodes which I thought had terrible pacing. I feel they could have been longer and incorporated a lot more story then they did.

I agree with you about the City at War episodes. Everything did happen too quickly, it was like watching turtles on helium. Another reason why I didn’t like it was because of Leonardo whining (Sorry, Michael Sinterniklaas is not for me). I wish I could read the comic issues for City at War. They look so cool! Plus, I want to be off of the 2k3 subject. How about Leo in the OT. Did he cry on that show?

Just to add: I LOVE 24!!!! Did you put that there ‘cause you watch the show, too? Or was it me? Usually when I type something in, I also put in something relating to Jack Bauer and what not.:tlol:

[FearlessLeader]

Just to add: I LOVE 24!!!! Did you put that there ‘cause you watch the show, too? Or was it me? Usually when I type something in, I also put in something relating to Jack Bauer and what not.:tlol:

:tgrin:

Yeah I have seen you mention 24 a few times so I figured you would get a kick out of me referencing it! :twink:

I am pretty certain all the guys teared up at least once or twice in the OT. I am currently re-watching it for the first time in like in like 15 years so I am not as versed in it's mythos as some people are here!

And read the City at War comics when ever you can. They are brilliant! Other then Leonardo: Blindsight totally some of my favorite issues of the entire Mirage run. They are worth reading JUST for the Leo versus the Elite fight at the end... I love Jim Lawson's work in that series!

[Katsu-san]

Leo is my favourite turtle, he is a badass ninja and a great Leader of the TMNT! Leo forever!!!:D

[Leonardo87]

Leonardo (Leo) has been a favorite of mine as long as I live. He is one of those people where you look up to and always admire his strength and determination for his family. He is very strong towards his emotions and he does have his weakness; but hey..everyone has that. I look up to Leo so much; he made me basically for who I am. Everyone has a character they can relate to and mine is Leo.

[Donnie]

*Friendly Bump*

Somewhere are the Michelangelo & Raphael Threads, they shouldn't be forgotten either!

[Donnie]

Compared with Mirage V 1, do you think Leonardo was a well rounded, well developed character in the OT?

[FearlessLeader]

Compared with Mirage V 1, do you think Leonardo was a well rounded, well developed character in the OT?

I think he was better in the first few seasons of the cartoon, as time goes on though I think he did become a little bit more of cookie cutter, good guy leader type.

I still love OT Leo for really being the big honorable dork he is a lot of times, but I enjoyed his characterization in 2K3 a lot more.

[ssjup81]

I think he was better in the first few seasons of the cartoon, as time goes on though I think he did become a little bit more of cookie cutter, good guy leader type.I agree with this. IMO, he was better in the earlier episodes. He was still a cool character, but seems that later on (and one of the reasons I could never favor him) was because he came across as the "wet blanket" of the group and it even seemed like, at times, Donatello was the unofficial leader (but when Leo's leadership was focused on, boy was it cool!). So yeah, seems as the OT series went on, Leo became the "needs to lighten up" and "stop being so bossy" type. Wish they wouldn't have downplayed him as much as they did, looking back on it now.

[Jester]

I'll say one thing for Fred Wolf's Leonardo he had his fault. He was self-conscious, and felt he couldn't do anything on his own, with out his team. I think I might take him over 4Kids Leo.

[FearlessLeader]

I'll say one thing for Fred Wolf's Leonardo he had his fault. He was self-conscious, and felt he couldn't do anything on his own, with out his team. I think I might take him over 4Kids Leo.

I am curious about this comment, because 4Kids Leo while at times especially in earlier seasons could be a little arrogant, he was also shown to have a lot of faults. Foremost how self conscious and hard on himself he is about being perfect.

Season 4 was completely about his journey about not feeling good enough and thinking he was a complete failure to his family.

Not that I have any issue with you preferring any version of Leo but I will never turn down a chance to have a conversation about his character! :tsmile:

[Jester]

Not sure...it may be the result of my marathons, I could watch a lot more episodes of the Fred Wolf series before having to take a break as opposed to the 4Kids series. Maybe the lighter tone, and the more fun characterizations made it so.

[LEOTMNT]

The following video pretty much summarises what I think of Leo, especially battle-wise. http://revision3.com/deathbattle/tmnt

Warning: the content around the mid-end of the video is somewhat violent.

LEOOOOOO!!!


Well i must say that this video was a horrid piece of work and the narrators are clearly not well-versed with much of anything to dispute the nunchucks as they did. however they did bring some valid points to the table...much of which seemed more focused on leo but who knows why that it.

on a side note Leonardo is my favorite turtle! and his valor is what i admire most. followed by his always righteous moral thinking and his keen martial arts abilities. his strategic prowess always came in handy as well, and we shouldn't forget that he has great leadership skills. thats not to say he doesnt have faults...over critical at times, perhaps even stubborn and ill accepting of defeat be it mental or physical. all around amazingly awesome ninja turtle!!

[Bauer536]

Heroes are heroes. They're strong hearted, intelligent, and the coolest fighters. We have all seen them before. And heroes have their weaknesses. Sometimes, the choices they make are stupid, but that doesn't mean they're useless. They're human.

I loved this video. Leo deserves to win. He's the leader, also the most skillful of the ninjas. I even loved the character descriptions the two guys gave them. But I'm sorry: Mike is not always a retard.

Still, this was a good video.

And Leo is the winner! Yaaaaayyyyyyy!!!!!!!:tgrin: The crowd goes wild! :tlol:

[Bauer536]

Okay, just curious. This is for DonnyTMNT and FearlessLeader and a few others. Why is Leo usually in the back on a few pictures while everyone else is in the front? That drives me crazy. Sometimes I think he's not getting attention or that creators don't like him for some reason. What's the real reason? I feel this has to stop.:tcry::tcry::tcry::tcry:

Of course, I shouldn't make a big deal of it. He's still a popular and badass character. Besides, he does get pictures of him where he's in the front. I don't know. I just want to hear what you have to say about this.

[Plasticplayhouse]

Leo has always been my fav with Donnie a very close second. First in the comics because I liked the fact he had swords and the nobel leader quality. Second in the movie/toon he wore blue, my favorite color...the color of nobility. To me, the movie version was the best incarnation of him. He had all the great leadership and skill qualities yet he had a bit more of a sense of humor and was able to let go a little when the time was right. All in all I relate most to Leo and Donnie. They are both highly intelligent and very aware of their surroundings. Donnie is a little more laid back than leo, but he has less self confidence.

[Donnie]

Okay, just curious. This is for DonnyTMNT and FearlessLeader and a few others. Why is Leo usually in the back on a few pictures while everyone else is in the front? That drives me crazy. Sometimes I think he's not getting attention or that creators don't like him for some reason. What's the real reason?

What do ya mean? I rarely see any group shot that doesn't showcase "Leo is the leader".

[Metropoliskid41]

What do ya mean? I rarely see any group shot that doesn't showcase "Leo is the leader".

Yeah I agree, to me it seems like if anyone gets pushed to the back in group photos its got to be Donatello. There are a few pics I can recall where a different turtle is in the front and Leo may be 2nd or 3rd and off to the side, but very rarely is he in the full on back. To me when he is thats just them trying to give some of the other characters more of a full body shot instead of just their head and an arm.

[LEOTMNT]

i traveled back here in desperate times...i was on the verge of switching favorites after a life long allegiance to Leo. doubt was upon me and i found myself only focusing on his faults, and not his strengths and what it was that i admired about him most. Righteous moral and situational awareness, Noble mind, honorable, disciplined, and loyal.

Safe to say that wont be happening and as everyone has already covered so many of Leos exceptional attributes as well as faults i cant say it any better than in previous posts! Leonardo is, and ALWAYS will be my favorite Turtle!!!

[Redeemer]

Im loving how badass Leo is n season 4 of the 2k3 series :D

[Logan]

I've always loved Leonardo. As a kid, I tended to be drawn toward the "leader" characters of my favorites heroes. It also didn't hurt that he had swords.

When I watch the OT, I'm actually rather glad Leo isn't given much in the way of one-liners. In a way, he kind of kept the show grounded and didn't let it completely slip into comedic territory. Cam Clarke is also one of my favorite VAs. Leo, Kaneda from Akira, Liquid Snake from Metal Gear Solid, Max Sterling from Robotech... he's got a memorable voice.

Lastly, Leo has probably my favorite line in the Mirage series.

[plasticturtle]

Leo was never my favorite turtle but he definately has the best weapons. My best memory of Leonardo comes not from the cartoons or comics but from the action figures. The time when I was getting into the turtles was also around the same period that the depression that has plagued me most of my life began to rear it's ugly head. There were many days I was so deep in the pit I thought I'd never be able to claw myself out. On one such occasion I was given the Leonardo action figure by my mom as a way to cheer me up. It worked. Leonardo was the one turtle I needed to complete the set of four. But while the figure itself was a factor in my feeling better that day it was the knowledge that my mom cared enough about me to do something like that for me that was really what perked me up.

[BubblyShell22]

Yeah, Leo will always be my favorite Turtle hands down. He's just awesome.

[Hermano Dyvas]

While I do think Leo is an awesome character I must say he is my least favorite. I guess it's because I don't like it when he gets cocky, while I understand Leo's viewpoint I actually root for Raph in their fight in "Return to New York", just like I do in their fight in the 2007 movie, Leo was really way too cocky in that one.

But I do admire his sense of discipline and he obviously cares a lot about his brothers. I think he'd be the most hurt should they ever split up. Also his fighting skills are awesome and you gotta love that mirage micro of his, even the 2K3 episode adaption of that was awesome!

So to conclude, not my favorite turtle but ironically the star of some of my favorite stories.

[Powder]

IMO Leo was only truly cocky in TMNT, which didn't really portray ANYBODY accurately.

[ToTheNines]

IMO Leo was only truly cocky in TMNT, which didn't really portray ANYBODY accurately.

I thought Raph was handled well, but I've grown to hate Nolan North lol.

But yeah, other than him... and maybe Karai, everyone else was off.

[Original TMNT Cartoon Fan]

the one with the snakes.

Snakes Alive!

[FearlessLeader]

While I do think Leo is an awesome character I must say he is my least favorite. I guess it's because I don't like it when he gets cocky, while I understand Leo's viewpoint I actually root for Raph in their fight in "Return to New York", just like I do in their fight in the 2007 movie, Leo was really way too cocky in that one.

But I do admire his sense of discipline and he obviously cares a lot about his brothers. I think he'd be the most hurt should they ever split up. Also his fighting skills are awesome and you gotta love that mirage micro of his, even the 2K3 episode adaption of that was awesome!

So to conclude, not my favorite turtle but ironically the star of some of my favorite stories.

IMO Leo was only truly cocky in TMNT, which didn't really portray ANYBODY accurately.


I really feel like TMNT Leo is probably the most misunderstood version of Leonardo, someday when I have a couple hours to kill I want to sit down with the film and write a long analysis of the character like Donnie has done with movie 1 Mikey and Splinter.

In the meantime here is my thoughts from earlier in this thread on the often pointed out "I'm better then you" line:



Also as for the "I'm better then you" line and Leo being better than Raphael. Leonardo didn't, in my opinion say that because he even believes he is better then his brother. Leonardo was struggling to figure out if he really was a good leader for the Turtles. When Raphael told him that they didn't need him and that they had gotten along great with him gone it cut through Leo like a knife. It was pretty much everything he feared happening thrown in his face. So he hit's Raphael back in the same place for him. By telling him he is better then he is, the one thing that I really think Raphael fears.

Neither is better then the other and I will go so far as to say that the two function terribly without the support of the other. Leo and Raph have a very ying and yang effect to each other. Leonardo tends to keep Raphael from acting too rash and getting himself or anyone else killed. Raphael tends to help Leo from turning his self criticism to deeply inward and makes him face his issues head on versus just brooding about them.

[Slade]

Leo. Not favorite, but I do rank him 2nd. I understand why people like him. Version I like the most would hav to be 4kids. Least would be 07 movie. Though I do have a different understanding of him now from reading the post above.

[Mr.Turtle]

leo is too perfect to be real...

[Donnie]

leo is too perfect to be real...

Looks like in the Nick show, Leo will struggle more than he ever has to prove his leadership. I can't wait to see what they have in store for him.

[Mr.Turtle]

^it's not unprecedented. leo was like that in the early 2k3 series.

[pannoni1]

For a time in the mid-late 90s when I was interested in martial arts, I liked Leonardo the most out of all of my Turtles, seeing him as a good model toward proper fighting technique and style. He is the only Turtle in the OT who doesn't have significant fourth wall breaking jokes and is underused in the first three movies in addition to his selfish TMNT attiude. I enjoy the Mirage and 4kids versions of Leonardo the most, and is my second favorite Turtle when playing the video games.

[Icegaze]

Did I mention that Leo was my favourite turtle?

[Mr.Turtle]

^can u say leo's name in french?

[Icegaze]

^can u say leo's name in french?

"Lay-o-narr-doh". Léonardo. *Like a boss* 8)

More seriously though, I realize how much Leo's character shaped me into who I am today.
Leo is the leader and "big brother" of the turtles / I am the first born of 4 children.
Leo wears blue / I chose blue to be my favourite colour (and since the age of 4-5 have stuck with it).
Leo is a ninja and does martial arts / I became a huuuge martial arts/fighting genre geek.
Leo is serious and "responsible" / I grew up holding those 2 traits as fundamental virtues.

Leo is and will remain my childhood hero. :)


PS: When I do get married and have a son, Leo (Lionel) will be one of the names I will consider, seriously.


Edit:
Cadeau. ;)

TuM25Ro1pZs

Cowabunga le cris des ninjas!

[Refractive Reflections]

My personal reasoning to explain Leonardo's appeal to some and disinterest with others:

His appeal: He embodies the aspirations of what is ideal, noble, and admired: self-sacrificing concern and love towards others, always putting others' concerns above his own, although he may not be the most talented his determination and persistence leads him to excel, obedient and respectful, a pillar of strength to his other brothers or of innocent victims, leadership qualities, his courage, intolerance for personal failures yet accepting of others' shortcomings, his determination to overcome any adversity, and showing mercy despite how easily he could overpower/kill his opponent.

Lack of interest toward his character: Seen as too perfect (gary stu/mary stu perfection qualities), too serious about accomplishing a task/mission, his stern/disciplined approach about many things makes him unrelatable to the more outward emotional frustration his other brothers experience, his excelled qualities in fighting that display no weakness despite some not realizing he's the most disciplined in fighting.


Obviously all the Turtles feel the same emotions, its just that Leonardo is probably the one who has learned to control/hide/repress his emotions or quirks the most since he is burdened with the responsibility of leadership and with the welfare of his brothers. Therefore it gives the impression to others of Leonardo having a flat, serious and boring personality when he's almost always expected to be the pillar of strength, courage, wisdom and support in almost all situations to an unhealthy point that it supersedes above his own needs/welfare.

It almost makes you wonder what Leonardo's personality would be if he wasn't the "leader" from the beginning or wasn't the eldest brother. It's one of those "What came first? The chicken or the egg" analogies. Was it his noble qualities that made him assigned to be a leader OR was it because he was the eldest and had to be responsible for others that developed his leadership/noble qualities?

[Bauer536]

It almost makes you wonder what Leonardo's personality would be if he wasn't the "leader" from the beginning or wasn't the eldest brother. It's one of those "What came first? The chicken or the egg" analogies. Was it his noble qualities that made him assigned to be a leader OR was it because he was the eldest and had to be responsible for others that developed his leadership/noble qualities?

If Leonardo wasn't the leader, I still think he'd have his time to shine. Any of them can lead, but he does it better. Still, we all know Leo is the leader, and that's what makes him who he is. I mean, he isn't useless. If he was never the leader, he would still prove to have those qualities. Leo's pretty smart (of course, not as smart as Donatello, obviously), so he could have been only a strategist to help the leader. Instead of leader, he would only be a tactician.

If Don was the leader, it's still possible that Raph would be jealous of him. Think about it. It's not Leo that's the problem. It's that Raph doesn't have all that he wants. He won't completely respect anyone who has the postion he believes he deserves.

[Refractive Reflections]

If Leonardo wasn't the leader, I still think he'd have his time to shine. Any of them can lead, but he does it better. Still, we all know Leo is the leader, and that's what makes him who he is. I mean, he isn't useless. If he was never the leader, he would still prove to have those qualities. Leo's pretty smart (of course, not as smart as Donatello, obviously), so he could have been only a strategist to help the leader. Instead of leader, he would only be a tactician.

If Don was the leader, it's still possible that Raph would be jealous of him. Think about it. It's not Leo that's the problem. It's that Raph doesn't have all that he wants. He won't completely respect anyone who has the postion he believes he deserves.

The other three can lead, but of course Leonardo is just gifted in leadership. No doubt about that. But I wonder how much is innate character and how much is from conditioning. (I'm sure those who are the oldest among their siblings can relate to the protective position Leonardo is in. There comes a time when those oldest siblings reach an age that they have to baby-sit or watch over their younger siblings if their parent/parents are preoccupied and almost become a "parent" themselves in the process.) In the end, I'm sure Leonardo's personality is derived from both his innate character/skills and environmental conditioning.

If Leonardo, for some bizarre reason, wasn't the leader and thus didn't have the pressure of his siblings' welfare and being the "pillar of strength"...and the perfectionist trait caused by that pressure, in my opinion Leonardo would be a LOT more free-spirited and youthfully innocent but still focused and determined. Who knows...maybe he could even be a much more disciplined version of Michelangelo....? (I'm not trying to challenge anybody's reasoning but interested in Leonardo's character development with different "what if?" scenarios and all of your opinions about it with people's differing life experiences.)

To "stir the pot" even more, let's hypothetically say if Leonardo (being the leader) perhaps was a middle child or, dare I say, the youngest of the four. Just imagine...if you thought Raphael was irritated by Leonardo's "bossing around"/leadership I can't even comprehend how much more upset Raphael would be having a younger brother telling him how to fight/solve things.

[Avatar Yuffie]

So your thoughts on 2012 Leo? I love him.

Maybe because the show never made him just "The Leader". He was given childish quirks with a dash of maturity (he makes it a point not to pick fights with Raph if he can help it) and a genuine marriage with his innate idealism (lol Space Heroes).

Or maybe because of Splinter. You guys have no idea how shocked I was when Splinter tells Leonardo that he must "seek victory, not fairness", I can NOT imagine OT/2K3 Splinter saying the same thing at all. And that's amazing.

IMHO... the nick show made me like ALL the Turtles. Which is mindblowing for me. Don's has always been my favorite since the OT, I wasn't much of a fan of angry rebellious loose cannons but accepted Raph's popularity, and Mikey is... Mikey. The fact this show made me LIKE Leo and appreciate his role as "the glue that stuck them all together" is a breath of fresh air.

[BubblyShell22]

I love Nick's take on Leo the best. He's still learning how to be an effective leader, and while I wasn't sold on how and why Splinter chose him as leader, I think there was more of an underlying issue there. I think Splinter did see all those qualities Leo mentioned but he didn't want to say so for fear of making Leo have a big head. So he chose the simplest answer and stated it was because Leo asked for the position instead of demanding it. Leo's still learning, and I think he wants to be exactly like Captain Ryan instead of doing things his own way. I like that about him.

[DonatelloNinja82]

I love 2k12 Leo as well. He's my favorite incarnation of him so far. But one thing I really love about this show is that it has them acting like actual teens.
I love how he takes Captain Ryan as his rolemodel, since he's still a teen trying to find his place in the world. He has nothing else to draw on for leading (except Splinter) except his own instinct.

[Bauer536]

I absolutely love the 2k12 Leo.:tcool:

I still think he's the leader we all know and love, but with a tint of geekiness. I love his Space Heroes obsession. It may not be quite like Star Trek, but I love how similar it looks to the old animated series (which I have never watched considering Star Trek seemed like it was always live action).:tlol:

Now to anyone who says that Leo bases himself off of his favorite television hero Captain Ryan, I can somewhat agree. While there are things that Leo doesn't understand because of his naivety, he has actually proven himself to be capable of leading his team. Yes, he bases himself off of Captain Ryan sometimes. But in the end, he is just him. I mean, I thought his act of mercy in "Never Say Xever" was going to be used because of an episode of Space Heroes he saw. However, this is not evident. It turns out he didn't see himself as performing an act that the captain would commit. It was only him, and him only. And that's what I like about this Leonardo. Now and then, he does look goofy when impersonating Captain Ryan, but he does have the capabilities to think on his own. As I always thought he was intelligent, only second to Donatello, I was impressed. This really proved that he was smart, especially by the end of the episode. I also love that he's not just the kind of guy that goes with, "Master Splinter said we must . . . " all the time. He also makes his own decisions. He's just . . . well . . . AWESOME!:tgrin:

To BubblyShell22: I agree with you about Splinter's choice. I have a feeling it's not only because Leo asked, but really because he believed in him. I think we'll be seeing later on that Splinter is truly Leo's role model and not just a television character. By this point if Leo loses his confidence, Splinter will tell him this, and Leo will then feel humbled and determined to continue as the leader. I can't wait when that happens.:twink:

[Stingray69]

Or maybe because of Splinter. You guys have no idea how shocked I was when Splinter tells Leonardo that he must "seek victory, not fairness", I can NOT imagine OT/2K3 Splinter saying the same thing at all. And that's amazing.


I was the same way. I thought dang did splinter just say that? But I thought it was awesome at the same time.

[DonatelloNinja82]

If Leonardo wasn't the leader, I still think he'd have his time to shine. Any of them can lead, but he does it better. Still, we all know Leo is the leader, and that's what makes him who he is. I mean, he isn't useless. If he was never the leader, he would still prove to have those qualities. Leo's pretty smart (of course, not as smart as Donatello, obviously), so he could have been only a strategist to help the leader. Instead of leader, he would only be a tactician.

If Don was the leader, it's still possible that Raph would be jealous of him. Think about it. It's not Leo that's the problem. It's that Raph doesn't have all that he wants. He won't completely respect anyone who has the postion he believes he deserves.

I agree. Don was leader in Leos absence in the 2k7 movie and Raph argued with him.

[BubblyShell22]

I absolutely love the 2k12 Leo.:tcool:

I still think he's the leader we all know and love, but with a tint of geekiness. I love his Space Heroes obsession. It may not be quite like Star Trek, but I love how similar it looks to the old animated series (which I have never watched considering Star Trek seemed like it was always live action).:tlol:

Now to anyone who says that Leo bases himself off of his favorite television hero Captain Ryan, I can somewhat agree. While there are things that Leo doesn't understand because of his naivety, he has actually proven himself to be capable of leading his team. Yes, he bases himself off of Captain Ryan sometimes. But in the end, he is just him. I mean, I thought his act of mercy in "Never Say Xever" was going to be used because of an episode of Space Heroes he saw. However, this is not evident. It turns out he didn't see himself as performing an act that the captain would commit. It was only him, and him only. And that's what I like about this Leonardo. Now and then, he does look goofy when impersonating Captain Ryan, but he does have the capabilities to think on his own. As I always thought he was intelligent, only second to Donatello, I was impressed. This really proved that he was smart, especially by the end of the episode. I also love that he's not just the kind of guy that goes with, "Master Splinter said we must . . . " all the time. He also makes his own decisions. He's just . . . well . . . AWESOME!:tgrin:

To BubblyShell22: I agree with you about Splinter's choice. I have a feeling it's not only because Leo asked, but really because he believed in him. I think we'll be seeing later on that Splinter is truly Leo's role model and not just a television character. By this point if Leo loses his confidence, Splinter will tell him this, and Leo will then feel humbled and determined to continue as the leader. I can't wait when that happens.:twink:

I totally agree with all of this, Bauer. And I like the fact that though he does idolize Captain Ryan and wants to be a leader like him, he also knows he has to do things on his own to be his own leader. I wonder if he'll feel pressured by Splinter to be a good leader in this series. I know in the 2K7 movie it felt like Splinter was heaping a lot of pressure on Leo which was why he sent him away and then was so harsh with him after the fight with the monsters.

[DonatelloNinja82]

I was the same way. I thought dang did splinter just say that? But I thought it was awesome at the same time.

It works for this Splinter...it fits his personality. As said before, I cannot imagine OT or 2k3 speaking like that...especially 2k3. He was so gentle lol!

[Red-eyed Jaguar]

While Leo might be not my favourite Character, I do like him and have a lot of Respect for this Character.

Now, since I haven't read the Comics yet(saw only a few scans), I'm curious how he is potrayed in the Mirage Comics. Somebody care enough to tell me?
I hope that's not too much to ask for ^^;

[Bauer536]

While Leo might be not my favourite Character, I do like him and have a lot of Respect for this Character.

Now, since I haven't read the Comics yet(saw only a few scans), I'm curious how he is potrayed in the Mirage Comics. Somebody care enough to tell me?
I hope that's not too much to ask for ^^;

He's very serious in the comics . . . but he is VERY badass and makes 2k3 Leo look like a salad instead of a steak.:tcool: He actually kills a few criminals such as the Shredder. He's that awesome. As for the IDW Leonardo: not as awesome enough.

While this one may not be aligned with the Mirage counterpart, the one on the Nickelodeon series is great, too.:twink:

[Red-eyed Jaguar]

Well, when I first saw him (then again, this goes for all four Mirage Turtles) in Turtles Forever,let's say, the Reaction of the OT ones came close to mine |D"
But it left me impressed, it's a complete Contrast to the 87' Cartoon(which I grew up with).

Agreed, Leo in the Nick Cartoon is great.
While this one may not be aligned with the Mirage counterpart, the one on the Nickelodeon series is great, too.
Well, the way he carries the Katanas on his Back is similiar. And from what I've seen, the fighting style too?!

[LeoDonnieMikeyRaph95]

Leo is my favorite turtle because as a kid ive always wanted to be like him! a leader! a fearless leader! Leo will always be my favorite!:tsmile:

[Ulisa]

Well, it's been a bit over a month since a comment in this thread but I really wanted to add in my two cents.

Leonardo is not my favorite turtle but I definitely count him as my second favorite. I think he's very intriguing both in 2k3, OT, movies, etc. However, my primary exposure to him is OT and 2k3. I find him very different in these two series but also just as enjoyable.

2k3: Very serious, devoted, determined and I love the protective factor. I also love his perfectionism becoming a flaw in Season 4. Leonardo's worst enemy in this series really is himself. He definitely has a deep rooted respect for Splinter, which was touched on in the OT but it really shines through here. I also find his interactions with Usagi to be intriguing. The two are very similiar but they also have different view points on certain topics. I do love Usagi's comments about becoming more 'ninja than samurai.' His development was definitely a key point of the 2k3 series and it was interesting to see the events of each season drive that. However, it did get a bit bothersome that Leo seemed to be the "hero" most of the time. I would have liked to see the others get some limelight too.

OT: This is probably my favorite version of Leonardo, as weird as that may sound because he has often been called the boring one. However, even as a kid, I loved this version. He is very noble, honorable and yet he is not nearly as serious as other versions, knowing how to be light-hearted, though he sometimes needs reminders. He loves to do what's right, regardless of the response. I can't recall the exact episode but I believe during the Red Sky era, he says something along the lines of "I'm not going to stop doing what's right just because it isn't popular." I really liked Leonardo's interactions with the other turtles in this series, mainly because it seemed to slip into many different roles: leader, protector, friend, brother, and at times, even seemed to border on parent. Splinter was much more 'teacher' than father in this series so it seemed like, at times, that Leonardo took over that role which is an interesting dynamic. One of my favorite interactions of this always involves Michelangelo. Michelangelo tells Leonardo to 'chew me out later' and at one point, when Michelangelo is more focused on a video game than the situation at hand, Leonardo responds with "Michelangelo if you don't stop playing that stupid game, I'm going to shut it off with my katana." I don't know why I love those scenes so much but it seems like a different take than most other versions.

Either way, no matter the version, Leonardo is definitely a brother I'd love to have behind me:)

Ulisa

[Zulithe]

http://i.imgur.com/PkMp4ul.png

[Donnie]

The fact that Leo's geekiness is played up in the Nick iteration makes me like him even more, I like him almost as much as Don in the show.

As was pointed out, Leo's nerdy tendencies were always there, as testament to his reading Dune in issue #2!

[Blossombrooks]

Personally I like nick Leo the least out of all the incarnations, he's still the best...obviously ;) but I prefer him to be much more serious like in the 2K3 series and the mirage comics, Blind Faith was just amazing!
Yes I know 2K3 Leo gets a lot of stick for being a perfectionist and going all 'batman' but I think the depth of his character was explored very well, I loved it when he went to study with the ancient one.
As for being a geek I think all variations of Leo have had a good book in hand at some point but I think the choice above is more creator orientated than character. I do wish Nick Leo wouldn't watch quite so much T.V but that's just my opinion and I understand the franchise has to move on.

[Zulithe]

Good comments. I think it's just that Nick is trying to portray the turtles as 'younger' and still maturing and growing into their personalities. In 2k3 they felt older. In Nick I think it's pretty clear they are 15. In 2k3, I am not very familiar with the canon to know what ages they technically are, but they felt closer to 17ish to me. It could explain some of the personality differences.

[BubblyShell22]

Yeah, I always felt that they acted older in the 2K3 series than they do in the Nick series. In the Nick series, they act younger, and I like how Leo is a geek and loves TV. It makes him seem more relatable to other people. The only thing I could relate to Leo about in the 2K3 series is the whole beating himself up for failure and putting pressure on himself. Other than that, I couldn't really relate to him at all. But I can relate to Nick Leo more even though I'm not a sci-fi geek like he is because I do have shows I love and watch constantly like he does with Space Heroes, so I can relate to him there.

Plus, you never know, but I'm sure Leo will start to put pressure on himself to be a good leader, though in a different way than 2K3 Leo did.

[Original TMNT Cartoon Fan]

OT: This is probably my favorite version of Leonardo, as weird as that may sound because he has often been called the boring one. However, even as a kid, I loved this version. He is very noble, honorable and yet he is not nearly as serious as other versions, knowing how to be light-hearted, though he sometimes needs reminders. He loves to do what's right, regardless of the response. I can't recall the exact episode but I believe during the Red Sky era, he says something along the lines of "I'm not going to stop doing what's right just because it isn't popular." I really liked Leonardo's interactions with the other turtles in this series, mainly because it seemed to slip into many different roles: leader, protector, friend, brother, and at times, even seemed to border on parent. Splinter was much more 'teacher' than father in this series so it seemed like, at times, that Leonardo took over that role which is an interesting dynamic. One of my favorite interactions of this always involves Michelangelo. Michelangelo tells Leonardo to 'chew me out later' and at one point, when Michelangelo is more focused on a video game than the situation at hand, Leonardo responds with "Michelangelo if you don't stop playing that stupid game, I'm going to shut it off with my katana." I don't know why I love those scenes so much but it seems like a different take than most other versions.

Either way, no matter the version, Leonardo is definitely a brother I'd love to have behind me:)

Ulisa

Did Splinter ever call the turtles his sons in the 1987 show?

But I like "Leoanrdo Lightens Up" (cool episode, with skateboarding Splinter and Maestro G. Kleff).

[ryukenden]

Leo is the type of Turtle that would look out for his brothers as he feels responsible for them. Even though he tends to be bossy or a perfectionist in several of his incarnations. But in the heat of battle, it would be wise to follow his lead as it would keep you alive. In some of the reviled incarnations, if Leo isn't serious, then there is no hope for that particular part of the franchise to survive.

[Ulisa]

Did Splinter ever call the turtles his sons in the 1987 show?

You know, I think he did, once or twice but it was a pretty rare thing. I need to watch my DVDs again, cause I could swear I do hear "my sons" or 'my son' once or twice

[Red-eyed Jaguar]

As far as I know, he called Donatello his Son in "Donatello's Duplicate" and Leonardo in "Leonardo Lighten's up"..perhaps in "Leonardo is missing" too..not sure about that one.

[Shredded]

I actually remember him calling them. "My sons." in "The old Switcheroo." while he was stuck in Shredders body... an odd time to do it when it's so rare that he does it.
But oh well.

[Donnie]

Did Splinter ever call the turtles his sons in the 1987 show?

But I like "Leoanrdo Lightens Up" (cool episode, with skateboarding Splinter and Maestro G. Kleff).

I looooove "Leonardo Lightens Up"...it was the only Turtles solo VHS I owned. It still cracks me up to this day.

"With that old fuddy duddy Splinter gone, we don't have to worry about any stupid ninja practice!"

[TheSmartOne]

You guys actually convinced me to go through the OT episodes XD I haven't gotten super far yet, but in 11 episodes, Splinter's only called them all "My Sons' once- Which is a far cry from 2k3 version where Splinter would say it at least once an episode. Also, I kind of noticed something weird. At one point, when Donnie and Raph were fighting the Shredder, Donnie says something along the lines of "If that thing hurts our buddies, you're going to regret it!" (This is one of the OT episodes. Mikey and Leo were fighting this dragon created by some jewel Shredder put on his helmet). Though they're all obviously close, there seems to be more of a "buddy/friend' kind of vibe to the OT turtles then a brother one. But I just started the series and this thing goes on for ten seasons, so we'll see what happens xD

On the topic of Leo, he's easily my second favourite for the simple reason that as the oldest child, I can relate to the kind of backtalk that goes on when you find yourself in a position of authority your younger sibs clearly don't think you deserve :) He's awesome and bringing out his geek side was a really nice touch in the nick series. You can see a distinct difference between Leo trying to emulate Captain Ryan (It all sounds forced, ridiculously dorky, and makes everyone groan), and Leo being Leo (He suddenly because assured and focused and every bit the leader his is in all previous iterations).

One thing I kind of miss is 2K3 Leo's habit of only fighting with one sword for the beginning of most fights. It was subtle, but a really nice touch. The minute Leo went for dual wielding, you knew things just got serious.

[Original TMNT Cartoon Fan]

I looooove "Leonardo Lightens Up"...it was the only Turtles solo VHS I owned. It still cracks me up to this day.

"With that old fuddy duddy Splinter gone, we don't have to worry about any stupid ninja practice!"

I hated the solo adventures as a kid, because it was no Shredder and Krang. Now, I like them so much. Cool opportunities to create new stories with new guys and girls, both good and bad.

[Klunk1234]

He was never been my favorite turtles, until I saw the 2k3 series. In this one, I learned how to love Leo a lot. He's loyal, a good leader, protective of his siblings at the point, he will sacrifice his own life for them.

And I love his name, Leonardo. If I would had a son, I would of like to choose this name for him. But that is a topic that I don't want to talk about.

[Leofan26]

I had no idea we had a Leo thread, he's been my favorite turtle since the 80s one, love every version 8)

I love every thing about the guy :)

[Whatswiththeheadbands?]

Leo, now that a tough one.

I don't know which incarnation i prefer the most out of all of them.

I suppose the OT is my least favorite Leo. He just doesn't seem that interesting and a bit one-dimensional.

The ones i do like are the Movie-1 Leo, 2k3 Leo, 2k7 Leo and 2k12 Leo.

I've always found Leo to be the most interesting overall out of all the turtles. The fact that he has to cope with the responsibilities of being a leader, and also being responsible for what happens to the turtles, or any other person for that matter.

[blindturtle02]

Hmm, I wanna say my favorite version is 2k3 but still not sure. This Leo was quite the perfectionist but the only reason he trained so diligently was to protect his family. He never sought to be the best of the best due to a competitive streak. This versions determination always reminds me of a young Bruce Wane we see in a flashback in Batman TAS. His sensei spoke of how driven his young pupil was. That's pretty similar to the way I picture Leo here. He won't rest until he has this or that kata at 110 percent efficiency. Raph often calls Leo a teacher's pet, but Leo's doing all of this because he's mature enough to put his family's needs before his own. He's not driven by competition or glory, he's driven by the loyalty and love he has for his brothers and father. I really admire this incarnation. The Ultimate Ninja episode was one of my favs because we see Leo relaxing and catching a flick with his family. I get the sense that it's not something he does all that much but then we don't really see any day in the life types of episodes. So he very well could do this more often unbeknownst to us.

2012 Leo is certainly less serious. But I like him as well. He still takes his training very seriously, but he loves spending time with his bros. I like this guy quite a bit because not only does he know how to work hard, but he knows how to have a good time as well. He's a pretty balanced guy here and I'm looking forward to seeing more Leocentric episodes as the series progresses. Oh, and it's good to see that he has a hobby outside of training in this series. His Space Heroes fixation is rather cute. Just another example of Leo training hard but still knowing how to kick back and be an average teen.

The OT Leo is cool to me because he's OT Leo. He was the first Leo incarnation I was introduced to. I remember loving the fact that he came with not one katana but two when I got him for my seventh bday as a kid. I'd never gotten to see the turtles in tactile representation before receiving the 4 of them of course, so I was enamored with all those cool ninja weapons and such. I still remember thinking they all looked a little puffy though lol. But anywho, this incarnation is kickin as well. He sort of reminds me of the 2012 Leo because he also knows how to work hard as well as play hard.

[Technogeek29]

Leo ranks number 3 in terms of Favorite turtle.

OT: I found OT Leonardo rather charming, he reminded me of Superman sometimes. I best decribed him as a "Overzealous Boyscout" which I would find rather funny at times. I also liked that he was rather serious compared to the other Turtles when at times I find the others antics a bit much. Despite his good nature and the feel of always doing whats right he seem to get carried away rather easily or too asorbed and what he did. Such as love, books, training and catching the villian of the show.

2K3: While i'l admit a lot less fun, he did carry many qualites over from his OT counterpart. Both have a strict code of honor and are easily discouraged when a plan or situation isn't to their liking. I like that Leo wasn't played up as the straight men cranked to 12 in this version as he was the only other Turtle besides Mikey to ever crack a joke during a tense situation. He had a servere superioty complex as well, when even the smallest of failures weighed far to heavily on his mind and would set him and a terrbile mood.

Movie: A good balance between the responsible and child like vunerable Leo. He was all smiles and jokes the begining of the movie until Splinter went missing. Afterwards his demeanor never shifted back to his childlike persona until movie 2 , which I love alot. Despite his serious shift changed, he still was as lost as the others depending heavily on April to provide information on the foot. Deafeated and heavily regreatting fighting with Raph when he saw him injured. I have to imagined he spent just about every waking moment in that room and probaly not eating all that well either. These Reasons alone make him my favorite Leo of the bunch.

[Warhorse]

Anyone remember getting the toys from the 80's toon era? I always remembered that they had stats on the back of the packages, and they had Leo listed at 17 years while the others were 15. I wonder why, anyone know?

But yeah, Leo is probably leaning towards as my second favorite. I personally liked the 2k3 toon where it showcases his complicated relationship with Karai (the fanfiction from that is some of the best I have ever read) I just wished they let him loosen up a bit. In the 1990 movie, while he was regal around Splinter, they also showed that he had no problem swearing and hanging loose with his brothers either. His stiffness in some mediums might be why some think he is boring. Until he unsheathes his sword, then he becomes an absolute badass.

[SonicKnuckles18]

Leonardo has always been my favorite turtle. When I first started watching, it was because he was the leader, and blue is my favorite color. XD Now, I like him because of how deep a character he is, and what good morals he has. Like in 2K3 series, during the city at war arc. He was the only one who wanted to take responsibility for what was happening to everyone, and not even Master Splinter would support him. He's always thinking about what's best for everyone, and he always tries to do what's right. Sure he can be a little too serious sometimes, but every so often that seriousness disappears, and you can see what a fun guy he is. One things for sure, I never once thought he was boring.

[ranger_scout]

Leonardo has always been my favorite turtle. When I first started watching, it was because he was the leader, and blue is my favorite color. XD Now, I like him because of how deep a character he is, and what good morals he has.

Those are my reasons as well. Even though Cam Clarke was a little annoyed while recording the 1987 series that he couldn't cut loose and be very funny, he certainly did what Rennee Jacobs (April) thought he other three did, which was putting their heart and soul into the parts. Snakes Alive! was my favorite episode of his and the lesson of conquering your fears by facing them helped me in life.

[ssjup81]

Well, it's finally happened. Since coming to watch the 2k12 series I can actually say I favor Leo! Seriously, I'm loving him for this series and I am favoring him second after Donny, but then that depends on my mood. Sometimes it's Donny, sometimes Leo.

I like the fact that he is a bit nerdy and at times childish, but can be mature. I loved how into Space Heroes he was too. I dunno, I'm just glad he's not coming across as only "the leader".

[rickwj324]

Leo has always been my favorite. I think out of all the turtles I see a bit of myself in him and relate to him a little more (but I also share some of Raph's anger..haha). With the Nick show it's almost hard for me to say I have a favorite though as I feel that all 4 turtles have been fleshed out really well and I love all 4 of them almost equally.

@ssjup81: I'm in Central VA as well! Howdy neighbor! :D

[ssjup81]

Leo has always been my favorite. I think out of all the turtles I see a bit of myself in him and relate to him a little more (but I also share some of Raph's anger..haha). With the Nick show it's almost hard for me to say I have a favorite though as I feel that all 4 turtles have been fleshed out really well and I love all 4 of them almost equally.

@ssjup81: I'm in Central VA as well! Howdy neighbor! :D
Howdy! I'm not currently there now but I am from there.

[MsMarvelDuckie]

Hmm, I wanna say my favorite version is 2k3 but still not sure. This Leo was quite the perfectionist but the only reason he trained so diligently was to protect his family. He never sought to be the best of the best due to a competitive streak. This versions determination always reminds me of a young Bruce Wane we see in a flashback in Batman TAS. His sensei spoke of how driven his young pupil was. That's pretty similar to the way I picture Leo here. He won't rest until he has this or that kata at 110 percent efficiency. Raph often calls Leo a teacher's pet, but Leo's doing all of this because he's mature enough to put his family's needs before his own. He's not driven by competition or glory, he's driven by the loyalty and love he has for his brothers and father. I really admire this incarnation. The Ultimate Ninja episode was one of my favs because we see Leo relaxing and catching a flick with his family. I get the sense that it's not something he does all that much but then we don't really see any day in the life types of episodes. So he very well could do this more often unbeknownst to us.

2012 Leo is certainly less serious. But I like him as well. He still takes his training very seriously, but he loves spending time with his bros. I like this guy quite a bit because not only does he know how to work hard, but he knows how to have a good time as well. He's a pretty balanced guy here and I'm looking forward to seeing more Leocentric episodes as the series progresses. Oh, and it's good to see that he has a hobby outside of training in this series. His Space Heroes fixation is rather cute. Just another example of Leo training hard but still knowing how to kick back and be an average teen.

The OT Leo is cool to me because he's OT Leo. He was the first Leo incarnation I was introduced to. I remember loving the fact that he came with not one katana but two when I got him for my seventh bday as a kid. I'd never gotten to see the turtles in tactile representation before receiving the 4 of them of course, so I was enamored with all those cool ninja weapons and such. I still remember thinking they all looked a little puffy though lol. But anywho, this incarnation is kickin as well. He sort of reminds me of the 2012 Leo because he also knows how to work hard as well as play hard.

Leo ranks number 3 in terms of Favorite turtle.

OT: I found OT Leonardo rather charming, he reminded me of Superman sometimes. I best decribed him as a "Overzealous Boyscout" which I would find rather funny at times. I also liked that he was rather serious compared to the other Turtles when at times I find the others antics a bit much. Despite his good nature and the feel of always doing whats right he seem to get carried away rather easily or too asorbed and what he did. Such as love, books, training and catching the villian of the show.

2K3: While i'l admit a lot less fun, he did carry many qualites over from his OT counterpart. Both have a strict code of honor and are easily discouraged when a plan or situation isn't to their liking. I like that Leo wasn't played up as the straight men cranked to 12 in this version as he was the only other Turtle besides Mikey to ever crack a joke during a tense situation. He had a servere superioty complex as well, when even the smallest of failures weighed far to heavily on his mind and would set him and a terrbile mood.

Movie: A good balance between the responsible and child like vunerable Leo. He was all smiles and jokes the begining of the movie until Splinter went missing. Afterwards his demeanor never shifted back to his childlike persona until movie 2 , which I love alot. Despite his serious shift changed, he still was as lost as the others depending heavily on April to provide information on the foot. Deafeated and heavily regreatting fighting with Raph when he saw him injured. I have to imagined he spent just about every waking moment in that room and probaly not eating all that well either. These Reasons alone make him my favorite Leo of the bunch.


Hey, I love you guys' thoughts on Leo, and I agree with most of them. Although he's never been my favorite, I LOVED Cam's voice in the OT, and I also really enjoy his personality in Nick. (That will ALWAYS be Mikey for me- except for the Nick one- that's Donny, oddly enough.) Possibly he is my second fave in that version, even over Mikey. I like that he's less uptight and more laid-back in that version than in most others, although for me, Leo will always be more like his movie version at his most balanced- I like him best in TMNT III, where he still knew how to cut loose at times, but was just as much a teen as the others.

[pennydreadful]

Hey, I love you guys' thoughts on Leo, and I agree with most of them. Although he's never been my favorite, I LOVED Cam's voice in the OT, and I also really enjoy his personality in Nick. (That will ALWAYS be Mikey for me- except for the Nick one- that's Donny, oddly enough.) Possibly he is my second fave in that version, even over Mikey. I like that he's less uptight and more laid-back in that version than in most others, although for me, Leo will always be more like his movie version at his most balanced- I like him best in TMNT III, where he still knew how to cut loose at times, but was just as much a teen as the others.

Agreed; I've always enjoyed Leo but I really love NickLeo showing me a side of the character that I haven't seen before - letting his hair down (so to speak).

[Leofan26]

Agreed; I've always enjoyed Leo but I really love NickLeo showing me a side of the character that I haven't seen before - letting his hair down (so to speak).

Really? I've heard some people say Nick's version is more bossy than the 2003 Leo, I'm like what???

Wonder how Nick's version will act after getting beaten so badly by Shredder in the up coming episodes? 2003 Leo kind of went a bit to the dark side, think same thing could happen?

[Shark_Blade]

Nah, I think he'll be like movie Leo.

Bruised and wounded, but he'll recover and finds peace trough meditation and kicked ass again.

[pennydreadful]

Really? I've heard some people say Nick's version is more bossy than the 2003 Leo, I'm like what???

Yeah, I've heard that too - I don't see it myself, but I guess we all perceive things differently! :)

[IndigoErth]

Bossy... Nah. I could see how kids who have a different favorite might feel that way when not considering - or not being able to fully consider - that it's expected of him to take on and figure out this role as being a leader. And an inexperienced kid isn't going to be able to pull of leadership quite as well as an adult.

If it was me at that age expected to be leader over three siblings who were basically fraternal twins of mine, equal peers... that's gonna be hard.

As for boringness... Well, Leo isn't boring at all if you connect with that sort of character and get him. ;)


My fave since I was a kid and finding I adore him again as an adult I'm glad to find that my like of him as a youngster wasn't just about the blue.

Also, side note, bit of a WoW player... the Blood Elf guys are also a fave in terms of male characters made of pixels. Was kinda floored a little the day I realized that my Blood Elf's voice was by the SAME guy who originally voiced Leo. I mean, that's just... wait a minute. lol

[Candy Kappa]

Also, side note, bit of a WoW player... the Blood Elf guys are also a fave in terms of male characters made of pixels. Was kinda floored a little the day I realized that my Blood Elf's voice was by the SAME guy who originally voiced Leo. I mean, that's just... wait a minute. lol

I think Cam Clarke also voices Medivh, and a few other characters as well if I'm not mistaken.

[Leofan26]

Bossy... Nah. I could see how kids who have a different favorite might feel that way when not considering - or not being able to fully consider - that it's expected of him to take on and figure out this role as being a leader. And an inexperienced kid isn't going to be able to pull of leadership quite as well as an adult.

If it was me at that age expected to be leader over three siblings who were basically fraternal twins of mine, equal peers... that's gonna be hard.

As for boringness... Well, Leo isn't boring at all if you connect with that sort of character and get him. ;)


My fave since I was a kid and finding I adore him again as an adult I'm glad to find that my like of him as a youngster wasn't just about the blue.

Also, side note, bit of a WoW player... the Blood Elf guys are also a fave in terms of male characters made of pixels. Was kinda floored a little the day I realized that my Blood Elf's voice was by the SAME guy who originally voiced Leo. I mean, that's just... wait a minute. lol

Yah, I don't find Nick's Leo bossy at all either. If any thing I find him more easy going than the other Leo's, I mean the other turtles don't a always listen to him no matter how much be try's sadly :(

I don't know how any one can find him boring, every series I find him bad ass and just awesome! :D

He's been my favorite since the 80s series myself, still is to this day :D

Edit;

I don't know, new summaries for the Leo beat down episode sounds harsh, hope Nick doesn't just brush it off and act like it never happened like some times does. Sounds pretty bad for him, I always thought the 2003 series did that arc Justice.

[BubblyShell22]

Yeah, I hope they don't ignore it either, but I remember Ciro saying in an interview that there was going to be a story arc for Leo, and that's the one we're seeing now. I don't think they will ignore something like that, and I do hope he carries scars from it in some way. It would be hard not to, but we'll see what happens.

[pennydreadful]

That would be great to see - I'm confident that Ciro will do it justice. I imagine that Leo will take a while to bounce back from it; hopefully we'll see some moments between him and Splinter where he tries to overcome his fears etc.

[BubblyShell22]

Yeah, I have faith in Ciro and the writing team, and since that's Ciro's favorite arc, I'm sure he'll really bring it out and do it justice as it should be done.

[Leofan26]

It'd be intresting if Leo was afraid to fight after being beaten like that.

Yah, I could see Leo having an character arc, trying to get back on his feet after that. If this is his favorite arc, hopefully they'll do just as good as job as the 2003 series did.

[Shark_Blade]

I doubt it.

People were saying Leo might develop a fear of height after the event in Booyakashowdown, but eh nothing of the sort happened.

And it won't happen this time too I reckon. Great cause I like him that way, nothing trivial as fear of fighting.

[BubblyShell22]

I think it would be more attuned to fear of failure more than fear of fighting. In "Fungus Humongous" his fear was about losing his team, but in this case, it would be the fear of defeat and letting everyone down, and I'd like to see something like that. We'll see how they take it though.