RIP Arleen Sorkin, the Original Harley Quinn

Thursday, actress Arleen Sorkin passed away of multiple sclerosis at the age of 67. She was best known as the original voice of Harley Quinn, originating the character in Batman: The Animated Series. according to Harley’s co-creator Paul Dini, a personal friend of Sorkin’s, she was the inspiration for the character as well. However, she also worked on the daytime soap opera Days of Our Lives and America’s Funniest People, a show featuring home-made funny videos in the vein of America’s Funniest Home Videos, which she co-hosted with Dave Coulier from 1990 to 1992. Additionally, she performed the initial recordings for the famous celebrity callers to the lead character’s radio show on Frasier, which was produced by her husband Christopher Lloyd (not that one); they were later dubbed over by the celebrity guest. She was beloved in the industry, as you can see here:

Devastated to learn we've lost the brilliant Arleen Sorkin. Not just a wonderful talent, but a truly wonderful person. I'm grateful not only to have worked with her, but to have been her friend. 🙏 Sending my heartfelt condolences to her family & loved ones. 💔 pic.twitter.com/g1Mb3BWoKn

— Mark Hamill (@MarkHamill) August 27, 2023

Without this gorgeous, talented goddess, #HarleyQuinn would have never existed. She was the inspiration & the heart & soul of this iconic character. I was in awe as #Batgirl watching her alongside @MarkHamill & Kevin. Sending love to her family #RipArleenSorkin ❤️🖤 🦇 pic.twitter.com/8zQdHsyOyM

— tara strong (@tarastrong) August 26, 2023