Back in Time Today
The Joker, Batman’s iconic nemesis, has been portrayed by various actors over the years, each bringing their own twist to the character. From the campy antics of the 1960s to the dark, psychological portrayals of modern cinema, these performances have defined the Joker’s place in Gotham’s lore. This article ranks 11 of these performances, examining what made each portrayal unique and memorable. Whether chilling, comedic, or tragic, the Joker remains a figure of chaos and intrigue.
1. Jared Leto – Suicide Squad (2016), Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021)
Jared Leto’s Joker was a visual departure from past iterations, featuring a punk-inspired aesthetic with tattoos and gold teeth. His performance was marked by an edginess that some found lacking in depth. The character’s flamboyant style contrasted with his unsettling presence. Despite mixed reviews, Leto’s Joker offered moments of genuine creepiness, particularly in Zack Snyder’s Justice League, where his laugh resonated ominously. Leto’s interpretation remains divisive, reflecting a modern, extravagant take on Gotham’s infamous villain.
2. Cesare Romero – Batman (1966 TV Series & Movie)
Cesare Romero brought a playful charm to the Joker, embodying the character with a larger-than-life presence. His portrayal in the 1966 TV series was characterized by a fun and campy vibe, making the Joker more of a mischievous trickster than a menacing villain. Romero’s refusal to shave his mustache became a quirky hallmark, visible beneath the white makeup. His Joker danced through Gotham, spreading chaos with a comedic twist, winning over audiences with his gleeful antics.
3. Jerome & Jeremiah Valeska (Cameron Monaghan) – Gotham (2015-2019)
Cameron Monaghan’s dual role in Gotham as Jerome and Jeremiah Valeska captured the Joker’s essence without officially naming him. His performance combined elements of Heath Ledger’s intensity and Jack Nicholson’s theatricality. Monaghan’s unpredictable portrayal was both electrifying and chilling, with moments of dark humor and madness. Not officially the Joker, yet embodying the spirit, he created a character that left a lasting impact. His circus-themed chaos and haunting laugh added layers to the Gotham narrative.
4. Joachim Phoenix – Joker (2019)
Joachim Phoenix’s Joker delves into the character’s origins, presenting a tragic figure shaped by societal neglect. His portrayal is deeply unsettling, painting a picture of a man pushed to the brink. Phoenix’s transformation into Arthur Fleck was both physical and emotional, earning acclaim for its raw intensity. The film’s dark tone and Phoenix’s performance redefined the Joker as a symbol of chaos born from despair. His portrayal raises questions about mental health and societal responsibility, resonating with audiences worldwide.
5. John DiMaggio – Batman: Under the Red Hood (2010)
John DiMaggio lent his deep, booming voice to the animated Joker, delivering a chilling performance in Batman: Under the Red Hood. His rendition of the character felt unhinged, capturing the Joker’s violent unpredictability. DiMaggio’s Joker taunted and tormented, especially during the intense scene with Jason Todd. This adaptation stayed true to the Joker’s chaotic nature, with a vocal performance that left a haunting impression. DiMaggio’s voice work added depth to the animated portrayal, solidifying his place among iconic Jokers.
6. Mark Hamill – Batman: The Animated Series (1992-), Arkham Games
Mark Hamill’s portrayal of the Joker in Batman: The Animated Series and the Arkham games is legendary. His sinister yet charismatic voice brought the character to life, blending humor and menace seamlessly. Hamill’s Joker was unpredictable, with a laugh that echoed through the series. His voice became synonymous with the character, defining the Joker for a generation. Hamill’s performance captured the essence of the Joker as both a comedic and threatening figure, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise.
7. Jack Nicholson – Batman (1989)
Jack Nicholson’s Joker was a masterful blend of theatricality and menace, embodying the character with flair and depth. His portrayal in Tim Burton’s Batman was both entertaining and unsettling, capturing the Joker’s dual nature. Nicholson’s performance was characterized by a devilish grin and a chilling laugh, making his Joker a memorable adversary. The character’s flamboyant style and cunning intellect added layers to the Gotham mythos. Nicholson’s Joker remains a benchmark for future interpretations, celebrated for its complexity and charm.
8. Joaquin Phoenix (Earth-2 Joker) – The Flash (2023)
In a surprise cameo, Joaquin Phoenix reprised his role as an alternate Joker in The Flash, offering a fresh take on the character. This brief yet impactful appearance highlighted a more traditional comic Joker, with an eerie off-screen laugh that echoed through Arkham. Phoenix’s portrayal was chilling, adding depth to the multiverse concept. His Joker, although short-lived, was memorable for its mysterious presence, embodying the essence of the character in a new light. The cameo left audiences intrigued and eager for more.
9. Cesar Romero – Batman: The Animated Series (Legacy Voice Influence)
Cesar Romero’s influence on the animated Joker is noteworthy, as his spirited performance in the 1960s left a legacy that extended to Mark Hamill’s portrayal. The vibrant, campy style of Romero’s Joker became a foundation for future interpretations. While not directly connected to the animated series, his spirit lived on through the voice and mannerisms. Romero’s playful yet chaotic approach captured the Joker’s essence, influencing how the character evolved in animation. His legacy is celebrated as part of the Joker’s rich history.
10. Heath Ledger – The Dark Knight (2008)
Heath Ledger’s Joker in The Dark Knight is hailed as a revolutionary portrayal, redefining the character for a new era. Ledger’s performance was intense, capturing the Joker’s psychotic nature with an anarchic edge. His portrayal was both mesmerizing and terrifying, leaving audiences captivated. The Joker’s chaotic philosophy and chilling methods were embodied through Ledger’s nuanced acting. His portrayal received widespread acclaim, elevating the character to new heights. Ledger’s Joker remains a benchmark for future interpretations, celebrated for its depth and impact.
11. Heath Ledger (Again, Because He’s Just That Good)
It’s rare for a single actor to dominate a ranking, but Heath Ledger’s Joker is deserving. His performance in The Dark Knight transcended expectations, becoming the definitive portrayal of the character. Ledger’s Joker was chaotic, unpredictable, and utterly compelling. His nuanced portrayal captured the essence of the character’s madness and genius. The performance was celebrated worldwide, earning Ledger a posthumous Academy Award. His Joker remains a cultural icon, symbolizing the darkness and complexity of Gotham’s infamous villain. Ledger’s impact is unparalleled.