Bruce Timm is widely known for his contributions to the DC Comics animated universe. He is the mastermind behind some of the most notable DC Comics animated series such as Batman: The Animated Series, Superman: The Animated Series, Justice League, and Justice League Beyond.
Timm and Paul Dini famously created the character Harley Quinn. The character became quite famous among the fans after she was adapted into live-action movies. In an interview, the Wonder Woman animated movie producer expressed his surprise over the fact that the Batman villainess has become this popular.
Bruce Timm Was Surprised to See Harley Quinn Becoming This Popular Among Fans
Way before her introduction to DC Comics’ canon in 1999, Harley Quinn was originally created by Bruce Timm and Paul Dini in 1992 for Batman: The Animated Series. She was a henchman for one of the most popular Batman villain, Joker. Later on in the animated series, Quinn is also seen as the sidekick and love interest of Joker.
In DC Comics, Harley’s origin story features her as a former psychiatrist who used to work at Gotham City’s Arkham Asylum. However, she eventually fell in love with Joker, one of her patients. She became his accomplice after being manipulated by him into leaving behind her career and engaging in illegal activities.
While talking to Den of Geek‘s John Saavedra, Timm was asked his thoughts about Harley’s growing popularity among fans. He said:
“Obviously, it’s really cool. It’s always gratifying when something you’ve done gets that much traction. Sometimes it kind of surprises me. I always thought the character was cool and appealing, but to have the kind of popularity that she has constantly surprises me. Like when I go to conventions and see the amount of girls sometimes guys dressed up as Harley.”
Timm’s Harley Quinn is widely known for her iconic character design, her playful demeanor, and her bold costume. Luckily for fans, Margot Robbie’s live-action portrayal of the character is nothing short of brilliant.
What Was Bruce Timm’s Original Plan for Harley Quinn?
Even after the DC Animated Universe had concluded, Timm did not stop working on animated DC projects. He made several animated films chronicling many DC superheroes such as Wonder Woman and the superhero team Justice League.
In the interview for Den of Geek, Timm admitted that the character of Harley becoming a recurring one was not planned. He said:
“When we first created her she was meant to be a one-off character, and then she got so popular. And still rising.”
Although Margot Robbie has not played the character in several years and it has not appeared in any recent animated series, it continues to be one of the most favorite Batman villains. This speaks volumes about fans’ craze for her.
Batman: The Animated Series is available for streaming on Max.
