Joker in other media
The Joker, a supervillain in DC Comics and archenemy of the superhero Batman, has appeared in a wide range of media beyond comic books, showcasing his versatility as a character. Here are some notable examples:
Television
change- Batman: The Animated Series (1992-1995) - Voiced by Mark Hamill, this critically acclaimed series helped solidify the Joker's popularity, with many considering Hamill's portrayal definitive.
- The New Batman Adventures (1997-1999) - A continuation of the animated universe, featuring the Joker in new storylines.
- Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker (2000) - This animated film presents a darker version of the Joker and explores the legacy he leaves behind.
- Gotham (2014-2019) - While the character is not directly named the Joker, the show features a character named Jerome Valeska, who exhibits many of the same traits.
- Harley Quinn (2019-present) - An animated series that features the Joker in a more comedic and absurd light, showcasing his tumultuous relationship with Harley Quinn.
Film
change- Batman: The Movie (1966) - Featured César Romero as the Joker, presenting a campy yet memorable portrayal.
- Tim Burton's Batman (1989) - Jack Nicholson's performance as the Joker blended humor with menace in a seminal live-action portrayal.
- The Dark Knight (2008) - Heath Ledger's portrayal earned him a posthumous Academy Award and is widely regarded as one of the most iconic representations of the character.
- Suicide Squad (2016) - Jared Leto played the Joker in a more modern and unique interpretation, diverging from traditional representations. Leto reprised his role in Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021)
- Joker (2019) - Directed by Todd Phillips and starring Joaquin Phoenix, this standalone film offers a dark origin story for the character, which received critical acclaim and several awards. Phoenix reprised his role in the 2024 sequel Joker: Foliè a Deux.
- The Batman (2022) - Directed by Matt Reeves and starring Robert Pattinson as Batman, the Joker is portrayed by Barry Keoghan. This version appears in a deleted scene of the movie and is a patient at Arkham State Hospital who displays a permanent twisted smile, peeling skin, and a burned scalp with patches of hair.
Video Games
change- Batman: Arkham Series - The Joker plays a central role in many games, particularly Batman: Arkham Asylum and Batman: Arkham City, with Mark Hamill reprising his voice role.
- Injustice Series - The Joker appears as a major character in this fighting game series, which features a crossover of DC superheroes.
- Batman: The Telltale Series - The Joker is portrayed in a different light, showcasing his origin and relationship with Batman.
Comics and Graphic Novels
changeIn addition to his original comic book appearances, the Joker has been featured prominently in numerous graphic novels, including:
- The Killing Joke - This graphic novel, written by Alan Moore, explores the Joker's origin and his relationship with Batman.
- Batman: A Death in the Family - Features a pivotal storyline involving the Joker's role in the death of Jason Todd, the second Robin.
Merchandise and Other Media
changeThe Joker has also appeared in various toys, collectibles, and merchandise, continuing to be a favorite among fans. Additionally, he has been referenced in parodies, cartoons, and other TV shows, solidifying his status as a cultural icon.
Overall, the Joker's character has been interpreted in diverse ways across different media, reflecting his complexity and enduring appeal in popular culture.