Harley Quinn: Evolution of a DC Icon Across Comics, Games, and Film

Harley Quinn stands today as one of DC’s brightest and most beloved heroines. A long-running thread of graphic novels follows her adventures, and she appears across DC films and video game titles. On July 28, 2022, the third season of her standalone animated series released. To mark that milestone, this piece traces when Miss Quinn first appeared and how her image has evolved over the years.

Harley Quinn debut. Batman: The Animated Series

Most DC characters begin in comic books, yet Harley Quinn is a notable exception. Her first appearance came in the animated show Batman: The Animated Series (1992–1994). For the Joker’s Favor episode, writers planned a dramatic reveal: the Clown Prince of Crime would pop out of a giant cake. To keep the moment lighter, the Joker was swapped for a character in a harlequin outfit. Thus Harley Quinn — the name and look — were born.

Her relationship with the Joker was portrayed as a dynamic where she mocks and remains devoted to Batman’s arch foe. The dynamic persisted for over twenty years, but today Harley spends time with Poison Ivy while the Joker turns attention to a new adversary named Punchline.

In the animated series, Harley has not yet become a sex symbol. Her actions feel wild and humorous rather than seductive. The show did feature feminine charm through Catwoman and Poison Ivy, while the Joker offered bold remarks about Batgirl’s sleek attire.

Harley in the comics. From the 90s graphic novels to the DC reboot

Shortly after the cartoon debut, Harley crossed into graphic novels. The Batman Adventures: Mad Love, released in 1993, presented her in a look and mood that echoed the animation. She teams with Catwoman and Poison Ivy to form the Gotham City Sirens, and solo Harley stories began in earnest around 2000.

The DC Universe reboot in 2011 reshaped Harley’s arc. She grew more independent, exploring relationships beyond the Joker. She dated Deadshot before forming ties with Poison Ivy. The Joker’s reaction grew harsher, culminating in torture and manipulation that deepened their rift. Harley moved toward solo adventures and gradually became a central figure in a line that echoed Deadpool’s mercenary mischief. She also broke the fourth wall at times to speak directly to readers and joined in collaborations with other villains inside the Suicide Squad. Those stories later provided a foundation for a major film.

The shift in tone led Harley to dress more provocative, trading the closed costume for a shorter, more intimate look. She acted with growing boldness and even played with romance and flirtation in scenes with Poison Ivy and other characters. For readers curious about Harley’s darker beginnings, the 2019 Harleen comic offers a harsh, dramatic retelling of her origin and the worsening dynamics with the Joker.

Harley Quinn in video games. Batman: Arkham and Injustice series

Harley appears in numerous DC video game titles. Classic entries include The Adventures of Batman and Robin on retro platforms and Lego Batman 2, alongside multiplayer DC Universe Online. The standout experiences come in the Injustice and Batman: Arkham series.

In Arkham Asylum and Arkham City, she serves as the Joker’s ally, while her outfits shift from the animation to more modern designs. In Arkham City she sports tight red and gray jeans, and in the later Arkham Knight her look shifts again as she leads a small gang in a darker, sleeker ensemble. The most intense moment comes when Batman restrains her, and she fights to break free with a furious roar.

Rumors about a Mortal Kombat versus DC Universe appearance never materialized, but Harley did appear in Injustice games. The first installment featured her in an open dress with visible undergarments, while Injustice 2 presents a more restrained outfit — a red vest and gray-black pants reminiscent of Arkham styling. Many fans noted an aesthetic echo of costumes from live-action productions, though there were no official confirmations. A dedicated review covers Injustice 2’s take on the character.

The DC film influence is clear as Harley’s in-game outfits nod to live-action looks. The connection points to a broader trend of cross-media inspiration and ongoing experimentation with her combat attire in gaming and film.

Harley Quinn in the DC Universe. Suicide Squad and Birds of Prey

Harley rose to global fame through the DC cinematic universe. The buzz began in late 2014 with Suicide Squad, where Margot Robbie’s portrayal of Harley in a bold, sparkly outfit struck a chord with fans. Cosplayers, artists, and collectors embraced the character, and in 2015 Harley’s presence became a staple at fan events and in cosplay showcases. The popularity helped fuel a wave of Harley-themed content and merchandise.

While Suicide Squad drew mixed reactions, it introduced a sexier side of Harley on screen. The character’s outfits emphasized her physicality, prompting discussion about how the heroine should be represented. The Birds of Prey project attempted to redefine the look and tone, presenting outfits that diverged from earlier expectations while exploring Harley’s autonomy. The reception varied, and some viewers felt the change in direction did not fully land.

Harley’s return in The Suicide Squad offered a shift toward a more grounded portrayal. The character’s wardrobe calls back to earlier games and comics, but the story moves away from sexualized depictions toward a more nuanced, evolving character arc. Reviews of the film highlight the tonal balance and the ongoing evolution of Harley’s image within the DC film universe.

Solo animated series about Harley Quinn

The rise of Harley’s image in 2015 spurred the creation of an animated series focused on her. The first season arrived in 2019 and quickly earned a devoted audience for its sharp humor and bold storytelling.

In the series, Harley appears in casual outfits, presenting a character who defies a simple label. The show balances humor and edge, delivering scenes that are both playful and provocative. Viewers will find moments that mix wit with daring.

Harsh, funny, and unapologetically herself, Harley remains a focal point of the series as it pushes the envelope on what a comic book antihero can be.

Harley Quinn has earned her status as a standout DC heroine thanks to a rich, evolving narrative. She blends charm, wit, and a touch of madness, making her a compelling figure to follow in movies, games, and comics. Anticipation builds for each new release that features her, as audiences in North America continue discovering new facets of her character.

Are you watching the third season of the solo animated series Harley?