On Friday, to commemorate the passing of Arleen Sorkin, we asked you to name the best comic starring the character she originated, Harley Quinn. Coming in at number one, unsurprisingly, with 44.4 percent of the result, was her co-creators Paul Dini and Bruce Timm’s 1993 one-shot “The Batman Adventures: Mad Love.”
The comic, which won the Eisner for Best Single Issue, and the Harvey Awards’ equivalent in 1994, revealed the origin of Dr. Harleen Quinzel for the first time, and while ostensibly aimed at kids, remains a tragic story of domestic abuse and codependency. It was eventually adapted into the penultimate episode of The New Batman Adventures, further cementing its place in DC’s legacy.
In second place with 11.1 percent of the vote was Harley’s first eponymous ongoing from 2000 to 2002, by Karl Kesel and Terry & Rachel Dodson. The series, which began shortly after her prime DC Universe debut in 1999, followed Harley as she struck out on her own for the first time, and is fondly remembered for its lively, colorful art, as well as its various guest appearances (including Superman!)
Unfortunately, the rest of the votes were too split to determine a consensus for third place, although Amanda Conner and Jimmy Palmiotti’s 2013-18 run, and their 2015 team-up “Harley Quinn and Power Girl,” each received votes, a testament to how the couple have redefined the character since the start of the ‘New 52;’ their work with her has undoubtedly been the biggest influence on Margot Robbie’s version in the movies, and the animated Harley Quinn Max series.
Thanks again for voting, and be sure to check back on Friday for our next Reader Poll! And once again, R.I.P. Arleen Sorkin; a reminder too that, per her family’s request, you can best honor her memory by donating to the National MS Society.
