DC Boss James Gunn Officially Teased Margot Robbie’s Return as Harley Quinn
A character between DC universes
The new DC cinematic universe followed a previous one that began with Man of Steel and ended with Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. The transition was not a clean break: James Gunn worked on both universes, and The Suicide Squad connects them while introducing characters who continued into newer projects.
Harley Quinn is among DC’s best-known characters. Margot Robbie played her in three films, but she has not yet appeared in the new DC universe.
Harley Quinn on screen
Harley Quinn, whose real name is Dr. Harleen Quinzel, first appeared in Batman: The Animated Series as an associate of the Joker. She later became a comic-book character with stories of her own.
Robbie debuted as Harley in 2016’s Suicide Squad, where the character was recruited into Task Force X. She returned in Cathy Yan’s 2020 film Birds of Prey and appeared again in Gunn’s 2021 film The Suicide Squad.
Gunn leaves casting open
In the podcast The Suicide Squad: Is It Canon?, Gunn discussed whether the film’s characters belong in the new DC universe. Peacemaker, Amanda Waller, Weasel and John Economos have appeared in later DC productions, while Harley has not.
Gunn said Harley is a character he is almost certain to use. He said he would make an effort to explain Robbie’s return if she wanted the role, but could cast someone else if she did not. Gunn also described Harley as a difficult fit because her character is closely tied to the Joker, who has not appeared in the new universe.
Key points
- James Gunn expects to use Harley Quinn in the new DC universe.
- Margot Robbie’s return depends on whether she wants to play the role.
- Gunn said he could cast another actor if Robbie does not return.
- Harley’s connection to the Joker poses a challenge because he has yet to appear in the new universe.