Margot Robbie stole hearts with her portrayal of the infamous DC villain and Joker’s partner-in-crime, Harley Quinn, in the films Suicide Squad (2016), Birds of Prey (2020), and The Suicide Squad (2021). However, in the movie Joker: Folie à Deux, which starred Joaquin Phoenix and was directed by Todd Phillips, the iconic role was taken on by the talented Lady Gaga.
During a previous interview with Variety on the red carpet of the 2024 Golden Globes, the Barbie actress shared her excitement about Gaga taking on the role: “Oh my God, she’s going to crush it. Are you kidding? She’s going to be amazing, I can’t wait to see it,” she exclaimed.
When asked if she had spoken to Gaga about their shared character, Robbie revealed that they hadn’t had the chance to interact. “I actually haven’t spoken to her about it,” said the Wolf of Wallstreet actress. “I almost don’t want to know so I can save it for the surprise when I get to see the movie,” she added. In another interview with MTV News in October 2022, Robbie expressed her joy at seeing other actresses bring their own interpretations of the character to the big screen.
She reflected on her wish for Harley to become a character like Batman or Macbeth, passed down from actor to actor. “It’s such an honor to have built a foundation strong enough that Harley can now be one of those characters that other actors get to have a go at playing,” she remarked, praising Gaga’s potential with the character.
The sequel to the hit 2019 Joker film premiered on October 4 to a lukewarm reception at the box office. Despite this, Joaquin Phoenix’s performance as Joker received critical acclaim. The film picks up where the first one left off, focusing on Arthur Fleck, also known as Joker, and his trials for murder.
Set in Arkham Asylum, the movie sees Joker crossing paths with Lee, aka Harley Quinn, leading to an intense and obsessive romance. The official synopsis describes their journey: “Struggling with his dual identity, failed comedian Arthur Fleck meets the love of his life, Harley Quinn, while incarcerated at Arkham State Hospital.”
Joker: Folie à Deux is currently showing in theaters, inviting audiences to delve into the twisted world of Joker and Harley Quinn once again.
