The Future of Harley Quinn: Margot Robbie's Role in the DC Universe
Exploring the possibilities for Harley Quinn's character in James Gunn's DC Universe and the potential for new actresses to take on the iconic role.
Margot Robbie's Vision for Harley Quinn
With James Gunn's DC Universe coming up, Margot Robbie offers a new update as to whether she'll be back as Harley Quinn. The DCEU timeline may be over, following the release of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, but some actors are coming back for Gunn's DC Universe. From Viola Davis' Amanda Waller to John Cena's Peacemaker, Gunn isn't getting rid of everything from the DCEU while rebooting characters like Superman and Batman.
Harley Quinn in prison at the start of Suicide Squad
One player who many have been wondering if she will be back or not is Robbie as Harley Quinn, who made her latest appearance in 2021's The Suicide Squad. In a new Variety profile, Robbie was asked if she is done playing Harley Quinn, with Lady Gaga set to play the character next in Joker: Folie \/ Deux. Robbie stressed that she was always hoping for Harley Quinn to become a character who gets played by many different actors. She shared the following:
Harley Quinn meeting the team in Suicide Squad
"I always wanted Harley to be a character that would get passed on to other actresses to play, the way there are so many iconic male characters. That was always the dream for her. Harley’s so fun and can go in so many different directions. You put her in someone else’s hands, and it’s like, “What are they going to do with her?” The options are endless."
Harley Quinn with her new team in Birds of Prey
Harley Quinn's Potential in James Gunn's DC Universe
With Gunn's DC Universe, there are multiple directions that Harley Quinn could go, whether with Robbie or a new actress. Batman: The Brave and The Bold is one DC Studios movie in the works, and theoretically, Harley Quinn could be one of several Gotham City characters who pop up in the film. Given that Damian Wayne is being introduced, the primary villain will likely be the Al Ghul family, meaning Harley Quinn would only be able to have a small role.
Harley Quinn with new hair and sunglasses in Birds of Prey
However, a recent DC Studios TV show that was revealed to be part of the DC Universe is Matt Reeves' Arkham series. If anything, showing Harley Quinn in Arkham Asylum and how she eventually breaks out - as is the case with most Batman villains - could offer a new angle for her character. There could also be flashbacks of her when she was still working there as a psychiatrist prior to her abusive relationship with Joker.
Harley Quinn smiling in The Suicide Squad
Following Robbie's comments, Gunn and DC Studios have not responded to whether or not Harley Quinn will be recast. The DC Universe movie that would be most fun to see for Harley Quinn, however, is Gotham City Sirens, which was one of the many projects Warner Bros. tried to develop during the DCEU era. Given how popular Harley Quinn is, audiences will likely not have to wait too long to see her in Gunn's DC Universe. Hopefully, DC Studios will clarify Robbie's DC Universe involvement sooner rather than later.
The Exciting Future of Harley Quinn
Margot Robbie's portrayal of Harley Quinn has captivated audiences, and her vision for the character's future opens up intriguing possibilities for the DC Universe. The prospect of new actresses taking on the iconic role adds an exciting layer of anticipation for fans, as they envision different interpretations of the beloved character.
With James Gunn's DC Universe offering diverse storytelling avenues, the potential for Harley Quinn's appearances in upcoming projects creates a sense of curiosity and excitement. Whether she continues to be portrayed by Margot Robbie or a new actress, the character's presence in the DC Universe is eagerly anticipated by fans and industry enthusiasts alike.
