10 Shocking Times Sidekicks Quit

Harley Quinn was the breakout character of Batman: The Animated Series. Starting out as simply a girlfriend and sidekick to The Joker, she grew into a complex and nuanced character, beloved by fans.

Their relationship was clearly portrayed as abusive, both physically and mentally. He left her to be arrested or die countless times, only to take her back when it was convenient for him to do so.

There are times, however, where Harley gets her own back, and it's hard not to cheer when she does.

In issue 25 of her comic, Harley confronted Joker in Arkham. Finally giving in to years of repressed anger and hate, she proceeded to both physically and verbally beat him down in a series of panels that are equally jaw-dropping and satisfying. After telling him that killing him would give him exactly what he wants, she leaves him for good.

Moving to Harley's animated life, in Harley Quinn, an elaborate 'trap' set up by Poison Ivy and The Riddler finally convinced Harley that Joker will always put his love/hate relationship with Batman first.

While at first the realisation crushes her, it does lead to an epic showdown at Joker's hideout.