What was the first movie to feature Harley Quinn?

Since arriving on the scene in 1992, Harley Quinn has become a fan-favourite character. She has appeared on television, in comics, in games and in movies, and is easily one of the most recognisable Batman villains.

Created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm, Harley made her debut in the smash hit television show, Batman: The Animated Series. Appearing in the episode, Joker’s Favor (1992), Harley initially became the Joker’s right-hand gal, before stepping out of his shadow to become a solo star.

In 1993, Harley side-stepped from the cartoon to comics, via the tie-in book Batman Adventures. She made her comic book debut in Batman Adventures issue #12, before appearing in such comics as Mad Love, Batman: Harley Quinn, and her own solo title.

From here, Harley continued to appear in cartoons (The New Batman Adventures, The Batman), in live-action shows (Birds of Prey, Arrow), and in games (The Adventures of Batman & Robin, Arkham Asylum). She also became a movie star, appearing as supporting character as well as a lead.

But what about Harley’s movie appearances? What was the first movie to feature Harley Quinn?

You’ve got questions, and I have the answers. So, let’s take a look as I break down Harley’s movie appearances, covering both cartoons and live-action.

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Harley Quinn’s first movie appearance

Harley Quinn has appeared in both animated movies and live-action films – quite a lot of them in fact. Below I am going to break down the two different formats to make it clear which movies gave Harl her initial time in the spot light.

Harley Quinn’s first animated movie

In terms of Harley Quinn’s movie debut, she initially appeared in the 2000 animated feature, Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker. Harley appeared in a supporting role showcasing her final moments with the Joker, and while her inclusion was quite small, it was very significant.

In Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker, Harley Quinn was voiced by Arleen Sorkin – the actress who originated the role in Batman: The Animated Series.

Harley Quinn’s first live-action movie

With regards to live-action, Harley Quinn made her movie debut in the 2016 action-adventure film, Suicide Squad. Harley was part of an ensemble cast of characters, appearing alongside the Joker, Captain Boomerang, and Killer Croc, amongst others.

In this movie, Harley Quinn was portrayed by Margot Robbie, who introduced the character to the DC Extended Universe (DCEU).

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Harley’s major milestones

OK, so the above info provides the movie appearances – now for a quick overlook at all of Harley’s major milestones.

• Harley’s first appearance – Joker’s Favor – Batman: The Animated Series (1992)
• Harley’s first comic book appearance – Batman Adventures issue #12 (1993)
• Harley’s first computer game appearance – The Adventures of Batman & Robin (1994)
• Harley’s first live-action appearance – Birds of Prey (2002)
• Harley’s first movie appearance – Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker (2000)
• Harley’s first live-action movie appearance – Suicide Squad (2016)
• First actress to play the role of Harley – Arleen Sorkin

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