Jerome Valeska is a fictional character from the television series Gotham, which is based on the DC Comics universe. He is portrayed as a psychopathic criminal and a key figure in the show's exploration of the origins of iconic villains. Jerome is known for his chaotic personality and flamboyant demeanor, often displaying a twisted sense of humor. In the series, Jerome is depicted as a young man with a troubled past, stemming from his upbringing in a mental institution. His character serves as a precursor to the Joker, one of Batman's most notorious adversaries. Jerome's actions and motivations significantly impact the storyline and the development of other characters in Gotham.