Batman: The Animated Series 10 Best Characters

As a brand-new and idealistic psychiatrist, Dr Harleen Quinzel had the misfortunate experience to be assigned to the Joker. In a very short time, he completely enthralled her, so much so that despite what it would mean for her personally and professionally, she broke him out of Arkham, adopted the name Harley Quinn, and became his girlfriend / henchgirl.

While unfortunate for Harleen, it was a boon for us, as Harley has become as much of an iconic foe for the Bat-family as her 'Puddin'.

Harley was an anomaly in Western animation for the time; a strong, fierce woman who could hold her own with Batgirl or Catwoman but was also completely and irredeemably in love with a notorious killer and sociopath. She didn't wear a skimpy costume (unlike many Marvel women of the era) and while she was normally linked arm in arm with Joker, she didn't need him to succeed (as seen in episodes where she teams up with Poison Ivy.)

For the most part, though, Harley defines 'co-dependent', bouncing between doing anything to please Joker and blaming herself when she doesn't get the joke.

Arleen Sorkin, best known as a soap opera actress, gave glorious life to Harley: an intelligent woman hidden behind a ditzy voice and big blue eyes. While the mantle of Harley would be taken up by many good actresses in the future, Sorkin set the bar high with her original portrayal.