The extremely serious Leonardo is usually portrayed wearing a blue bandanna throughout the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series. His weapons are two ninjaken (swords) and he is the eldest of the four Turtles. He has taken on the role of the leader, being close to their sensei, Splinter. Because of this, Leonardo also spends most of his time in meditation and practice. His strong sense of honor is also seen in his strict obedience of the Bushido code.
Leonardo is very interested in order, which is also why he is the one who thinks up tactics for the team. He is also affectionate towards his family, and shows this by ensuring their safety. As a leader, his orders are usually followed. Leonardo, or Leo, is also portrayed as the driver of the Turtles’ van. His keen strategies are also heightened by his Olympic-level speed and strength, as well as his agility. He has also been romantically linked with the young kunoichi Lotus, a swordswoman prodigy from Japan. Leonardo likes to relax by spending time with his brothers, especially during dinnertime. He likes listening to Splinter’s stories, and is fond of the lessons he gets from them.
Splinter has sent Leonardo off to hone his skills. In TMNT, Leonardo was tasked to become a more efficient leader after the defeat of their enemy, Shredder. Leonardo spent time in Central America, and returned to New York to face a dangerous new evil. He also has a strained relationship with his brother, Raphael. Though the two enjoy goofing off at times, Leonardo has become frustrated at Raphael’s limited point of view. Both of them are dedicated to fighting for justice, but Leonardo’s methods vary from his brother’s. Leonardo feels responsible for his family, and has prepared very diligently in case threats come their way.
Leonardo was portrayed by David Forman in the first films, and was voiced by Brian Tochi. In TMNT, he has been voiced by James Arnold Taylor.