A Tribute to Arleen Sorkin: Remembering the Original Harley Quinn

Arleen Sorkin, Original Harley Quinn Voice Actor, Dies at 67

Arleen Sorkin, the original voice of Harley Quinn from “Batman: The Animated Series” and a beloved actor from “Days of Our Lives,” passed away on Saturday at the age of 67. The news was shared by DC Studios CEO James Gunn, who paid tribute to Sorkin on Instagram.

A Multifaceted Career

Sorkin began her career in the entertainment industry in the 1970s and 1980s, working in a comedy troupe and as a cabaret performer. She landed the role of Calliope Jones in the soap opera “Days of Our Lives” in 1984, which earned her two Emmy nominations for outstanding supporting actress in a drama series in 1988 and 1989.

Although Sorkin had a successful acting career, her portrayal of Harley Quinn in the 1992 episode of “Batman: The Animated Series” entitled “Joker’s Favor” remains one of her most iconic roles. Originally intended to be a one-episode character, Sorkin’s portrayal brought the character to life in a way that resonated with audiences. She went on to voice Harley Quinn in various other projects, including “Superman: The Animated Series,” “The New Batman Adventures,” “Gotham Girls,” and more.

In addition to her acting work, Sorkin also served as a writer and producer on shows like “How to Marry a Billionaire” and “Fired Up.” She co-wrote the film “Picture Perfect” in 1997 and contributed to the writing of two episodes of “Tiny Toon Adventures.”

A Legendary Friendship

Mark Hamill, the actor who famously portrayed the Joker alongside Sorkin’s Harley Quinn, expressed his devastation at the news. In a heartfelt message on Twitter, Hamill described Sorkin as not just a wonderful talent, but a truly wonderful person. He expressed his gratitude for having the opportunity to work with her and called her his friend.

Legacy and Impact

Arleen Sorkin’s contributions to the Batman animated series and her portrayal of Harley Quinn have left an indelible mark on pop culture. Her performance brought depth and complexity to the character, propelling Harley Quinn from a one-episode appearance to a beloved and enduring figure in the DC universe.

Through her work, Sorkin showed us the power of voice acting and demonstrated the importance of diverse representation in media. Her portrayal of a complex and multifaceted female character challenged stereotypes and paved the way for future projects that would celebrate strong and dynamic female characters.

Celebrating a Life Well-Lived

While we mourn the loss of Arleen Sorkin, it is important to remember the impact she had on the entertainment industry and the joy she brought to audiences around the world. Her legacy will live on through her memorable performances and the inspiration she provided to aspiring actors.

As we bid farewell to an incredible talent, let us also send our heartfelt condolences to Sorkin’s family, friends, and fans. May they find solace in the knowledge that her contributions will never be forgotten, and her influence will continue to resonate for years to come.