Margot Robbie, who first portrayed Harley Quinn in 2016’s Suicide Squad and reprised the role in Birds of Prey and James Gunn’s The Suicide Squad, appears unlikely to continue as the character in the newly launched DC Universe (DCU). As DC Studios restructures its franchise, the fate of Robbie’s Harley Quinn remains unclear, raising questions about the character’s future direction within the DCU.
New Projects and Casting Decisions Affect Harley Quinn’s Path
Recent reports, including one from The Hollywood Reporter covering director Zach Cregger’s upcoming film Henchmen, indicate that DC Studios has not yet cast major characters like the Joker or Batman for its future slate. The report adds that while Margot Robbie could theoretically reprise Harley Quinn, this is considered improbable.
DC Studios hasn’t yet cast a Joker or a Batman,
—The Hollywood Reporter
Harley Quinn, theoretically but probably not, could still be played by James Gunn’s The Suicide Squad star Margot Robbie.
—The Hollywood Reporter
This suggests that Robbie’s connection to the previous DC Extended Universe (DCEU) may complicate her return, despite her acclaimed performances. Interestingly, John Cena, another performer linked to the DCEU, will continue his role in the Peacemaker series’ forthcoming season, showing some exceptions to the trend.
Studio Leadership Aims to Respect Other Batman Projects
DC Studios co-CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran appear cautious around Batman-related projects, given Matt Reeves’s ongoing work on The Batman Part II and potentially a third installment. They want to avoid overlap, especially when it comes to villainous characters, to prevent conflicting storylines across the DCU.
likely want to be careful with anything Batman-related
—The Hollywood Reporter
and perhaps even a Batman Part III.
—The Hollywood Reporter
don’t want to step on his toes and double up on villains for their universe.
—The Hollywood Reporter
Margot Robbie’s Perspective on Passing the Torch
Earlier this year, Margot Robbie addressed her thoughts on the long-term future of Harley Quinn, especially as Lady Gaga prepares to portray the character in Joker: Folie à Deux. Robbie expressed that she envisioned Harley Quinn as a character who could be portrayed by many actresses over time, similar to iconic male characters in comic book history.
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,
—Margot Robbie
That was always the dream for her.
—Margot Robbie
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.
—Margot Robbie
Advocating for Harley Quinn’s Relationship with Poison Ivy
Margot Robbie also revealed her enthusiasm for developing Harley Quinn’s romantic connection with Poison Ivy, a storyline well-received in the Harley Quinn animated series on HBO Max. She admitted to actively promoting this direction for years and expressed hope that it will eventually come to life in live-action.
I have been pushing for that for years. I cannot tell you how hard I’ve been pushing for that. I want it too,
—Margot Robbie
Honestly, when I pictured, I always picture like Poison Ivy in the comics. I don’t really actually picture an actress doing it, but I agree, that would be so good.
—Margot Robbie
The Future of Harley Quinn in the DCU Remains Open
As DC Studios continues to reshape its interconnected universe under James Gunn and Peter Safran, the position of Harley Quinn is uncertain without Margot Robbie’s confirmed involvement. While the character has a rich history and many future possibilities, including new relationships and story arcs, fans and industry watchers await official announcements regarding who will take up the mantle next and how Harley Quinn will evolve in the coming DCU films and series.
