In the expansive and ever-evolving DC Universe, Harley Quinn has remained one of the most unpredictable and beloved characters. From her origins as the Joker’s psychiatrist turned accomplice to her journey of independence, Harley’s path has been full of chaos, humor, and tragedy. While her survival against overwhelming odds is a testament to her resilience, there have been alternate storylines where Harley Quinn meets a tragic end. In this article, we will explore two major story arcs in which Harley Quinn’s demise left a lasting impact on the DC Universe, highlighting the emotional and narrative weight behind her deaths.
Harley Quinn’s Death in Zack Snyder’s Justice League (Snyder Cut)
In Zack Snyder’s Justice League, a surprising revelation about Harley Quinn’s death occurs in a post-apocalyptic sequence. During this “Knightmare” vision, Batman reveals to the Joker that Harley Quinn died in his arms, bleeding and asking him to promise that when he kills the Joker, he should do it slowly.
This alternate future shocked many fans, including Margot Robbie, the actress portraying Harley in the DC Extended Universe, who was unaware of this scene’s existence. This death was not shown on-screen, but Batman’s account of her death emphasized the emotional impact it had on him, indicating how significant she had become in this universe.
The “Last Harley Story” in DC Comics
In the comic Harley Quinn 30th Anniversary Special #1, Harley’s death is portrayed in a story called “The Last Harley Story.” In this tale, Harley confronts Amanda Waller, the head of Task Force X (the Suicide Squad). Waller, true to her ruthless nature, detonates the implant in Harley’s brain, which is meant to ensure compliance.
Harley’s life ends in an explosion orchestrated by Waller, underscoring the brutal nature of the Suicide Squad operations. This death takes place in Harley’s own perspective, with her envisioning an alternate future where she survives the event, making it a tragic and layered farewell​.
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