Sydney Sweeney has emerged as a potential new face for Harley Quinn in the evolving DC Universe, following Margot Robbie’s acclaimed portrayal of the character in the DCEU. Robbie’s Harley Quinn first appeared in 2016’s Suicide Squad and quickly became a standout figure, capturing fans with her unique charm and complexity. As DC transitions to a new cinematic chapter under James Gunn, speculation grows over who will inhabit this iconic role.
So far, Gunn’s DC Universe has not included Robbie’s Harley Quinn, with the franchise yet to explore Gotham City in depth—a storyline teased in the upcoming Clayface film. Since the new DCU has recast Henry Cavill’s Superman, it is believed that Harley Quinn could also see a fresh cast. Sydney Sweeney has gained considerable attention from fans as a likely candidate to bring Harley Quinn to life in this new era.
On social media, a fan-created image shared by the Facebook page Long Live The Bat imagines Sweeney dressed as Harley Quinn. The artwork updates the character’s signature red and black color palette and draws on the classic jester design seen in the comics and Batman: The Animated Series, which Robbie’s version briefly reflected in the DCEU.
Potential for Sydney Sweeney to Take Over as Harley Quinn in the DC Universe
Replacing Margot Robbie’s version of Harley Quinn would mark a significant change, given the character’s popularity and Robbie’s strong impact. James Gunn, who directed 2021’s The Suicide Squad starring Robbie, has stated that he currently has no plans involving Harley Quinn in the new DCU. Yet, he has preserved several actors from his Peacemaker series in their original roles, leaving open the possibility that Robbie’s Harley might carry over.
When asked about whether Margot Robbie would return or if the role would be recast, Gunn responded,
“That will be revealed down the line.”
Margot Robbie herself has been somewhat ambiguous about returning, mentioning in interviews that revisiting Harley Quinn would be enjoyable but also expressing that she
“always wanted Harley to be a character that would get passed on to other actresses.”
At 28 years old, Sydney Sweeney fits the profile for wearing the Harley Quinn mantle over the next decade, should Robbie not reprise the role. Sweeney brings experience in superhero films with her part in Madame Web, and with the apparent closure of Sony’s Spider-Man Universe, she is now free to join the DCU. Her name has surfaced frequently among fans as a favorite for various DC characters.
Why Sydney Sweeney Could Be an Ideal Harley Quinn for the DC Universe
Sydney Sweeney is currently one of Hollywood’s most sought-after young actresses, known for her breakout role as Cassie Howard in HBO’s Euphoria. Her work on that series revealed her dramatic range, which aligns well with Harley Quinn’s multifaceted persona—part chaotic, part captivating, and deeply complex. Sweeney’s ability to portray characters with intense, unpredictable energy makes her a strong candidate to embody Harley’s vibrant personality.
The character of Cassie on Euphoria shares a certain wild unpredictability that echoes Harley Quinn’s spirit. In addition, Sweeney’s charisma shines through in various projects like Anyone But You, illustrating her screen presence and charm. While following Robbie’s iconic portrayal is a daunting task, Sydney Sweeney has demonstrated the talent to bring her own unique interpretation of Harley Quinn to the DC Universe, should James Gunn decide to move forward with recasting.
