Arleen Sorkin, The First Voice Of Harley Quinn, Dies Aged 67
Arleen Sorkin, the voice behind the first-ever appearance of Harley Quinn, has died at the age of 67. She played Harley in Batman: The Animated Series from 1992, later reprising her role until 2011's DC Universe Online.
Sorkin's death was first reported last night, as she is said to have died from complications stemming from lung cancer. Tributes are pouring in from fans and colleagues alike, as everyone remembers the woman who gave us one of the most iconic performances of all time, with its influence still being felt to this day.
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Sorkin's impact on the DC universe cannot be overstated. Not only did she serve as inspiration for the character's design, but her performance as Harley would immediately solidify the character as a fan favourite.
Since The Animated Series, many other actors have taken up the role of Harley, all drawing upon Sorkin's depiction for inspiration. Sorkin's "Mistah Js" and "Puddins" set the standard so much that we've even heard it in live-action, with Margot Robbie playing her in the DC Extended Universe. Through every change in Harley's life, Sorkin's performance will always be the blueprint.
Even lesser-mentioned aspects of Harley are only there thanks to Sorkin. While there the obvious similarities between their first names, Sorkin is also from a Jewish family, a trait that would be passed on to Harley.
Having played Harley for so many years, she touched the lives of creatives across the industry. Tributes are led by Mark Hamill, who played The Joker alongside her in The Animated Series.
"Devastated to learn we've lost the brilliant Arleen Sorkin," writes Hamill. "Not just a wonderful talent, but a truly wonderful
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