Every Animated Version of The Joker, Ranked

The Joker stands out as one of the most iconic comic book villains ever created. He’s been reinterpreted many times in different media – from films and TV shows to video games. However, many fans consider his animated versions to be the best. Whether it’s through classic shows like *Batman: The Animated Series* or more recent and unusual projects, each animated take on Batman’s enemy offers something different – from terrifying threats to hilarious moments and deep psychological insights.

We’ve put together a ranking of every animated Joker, from the least to the most impressive, based on his appearances in DC’s animated shows and movies. We’re only considering animated versions of the character – no comic book, live-action, or video game Jokers will be included. There have been a surprising number of animated Jokers over the years, and while there are plenty to choose from, we’ll determine which one is the best.

16) The Adventures of Batman – Larry Storch

As a long-time movie and animation fan, I always get a kick out of looking back at early takes on iconic characters. Back in 1968, Hanna-Barbera – the folks behind *The Flintstones* and *Scooby-Doo* – created *The Adventures of Batman*, which actually marked the Joker’s very first animated appearance! And you can *definitely* tell it was influenced by the era. Larry Storch, a really funny actor, voiced the Joker, and he really played up the campy, over-the-top villain style that Cesar Romero perfected in the 60s live-action *Batman* show. This Joker wasn’t so much a terrifying criminal mastermind as a mischievous prankster – a far cry from the darker, more menacing versions we’re used to today.

This Joker, while significant historically, doesn’t hold up as a strong villain by today’s standards. He felt more like a one-off character than a fully developed antagonist. Though fans appreciate the series’ pioneering work, it hasn’t stood the test of time.

15) The New Adventures of Batman – Lennie Weinrib

A few years later, Filmation brought Batman back to television with a new animated series called *The New Adventures of Batman*, and the Joker returned with it. Lennie Weinrib’s portrayal of the Joker kept him playful and mischievous, with a more energetic voice than the previous actor. However, this version of the Joker wasn’t particularly frightening, remaining largely a silly villain suitable for a Saturday morning cartoon.

Some fans have a soft spot for him, remembering him with fondness, but his simple character and comedic style prevent him from ranking higher.

14) Batman: The Brave and the Bold – Jeff Bennett

This Joker resembled the playful, old-fashioned style of Batman: The Brave and the Bold. Jeff Bennett voiced the character, making him silly, dramatic, and brightly colored. Although fun within the show, this Joker wasn’t intended to be scary-he was a nod to the Joker’s more comical roots in classic comics.

While Bennett did a good job with the voice, this version of the Joker doesn’t feel as deeply threatening or memorable as some other portrayals.

13) Justice League Action – Mark Hamill

Mark Hamill is widely considered the definitive voice of the Joker in animation, and for good reason – he played the character from 1992 to 2019 in many different projects. When *Justice League Action* debuted in 2016, fans were excited to hear him reprise the role. However, the show’s focus on being lighthearted and appropriate for children meant Hamill couldn’t fully showcase the Joker’s more menacing qualities. This version of the Joker was more of a playful prankster, often used for comedic relief within the show’s group adventures.

Although Mark Hamill’s voice is well-known and memorable, this performance doesn’t stand out as much as his other, more famous roles.

12) Young Justice – Brent Spiner

I always thought Brent Spiner – you know, the guy who played Data on *Star Trek* – was a really interesting choice for the Joker in *Young Justice*. His version of the character was definitely… different. They designed him to be all lanky and creepy, and he really came across as unpredictable. Honestly, people had mixed feelings about it. Some of us loved that Spiner brought something totally new to the role, but others thought he went a little too far with it.

11) DC Super Hero Girls – Jeremiah Watkins

The DC Super Hero Girls series presents a reimagined Joker geared towards a younger audience. Voiced by Jeremiah Watkins, this Joker is more goofy and comical than truly villainous, and while not scary, he fits the show’s generally lighthearted tone.

While many Joker fans don’t love him, he still fits the overall appeal of the series, which is why we’ve ranked him 11th.

10) Batman Unlimited – Troy Baker

Troy Baker is famous for his voice acting in video games, like his role as the Joker in *Arkham Origins*. He also lent his voice to the *Batman Unlimited* series of direct-to-video movies. These movies were primarily made to promote Batman action figures, and that focus is noticeable in the storyline.

Jack Baker’s portrayal of the Joker was strong – he was lively and intimidating enough for a younger audience. However, it didn’t reach the complex, layered performances fans have come to expect from more acclaimed Jokers, or from his own work in video games. While Baker demonstrated his acting ability, the script itself held him back. Most fans consider this version of the Joker to be decent, but not outstanding.

9) The Batman – Kevin Michael Richardson

Beyond Brent Spiner’s performance as Data, Kevin Michael Richardson’s Joker in *The Batman* sparked a lot of debate among fans. His unique look – featuring dreadlock-like hair and a barefoot style – was a significant departure from previous versions of the character. Richardson also brought a powerful, booming voice to the role, making this Joker feel more physically imposing than many other animated interpretations.

The redesign initially divided fans – some disliked it, while others welcomed the fresh approach. However, it’s gradually gained recognition as a creative and innovative update, even though it doesn’t appeal to everyone.

8) The LEGO Batman Movie – Zach Galifianakis

LEGO movies are known for being playfully funny and celebrating the properties they’re based on, and *The LEGO Batman Movie* continues that tradition. Zach Galifianakis perfectly captured the tone, bringing a new and funny energy to the Joker. His portrayal was a parody, but also surprisingly touching, showing Joker’s desire for Batman to recognize him. Audiences enjoyed how the film balanced Joker’s obsession with Batman, making it both funny and genuinely sweet.

While Zach Galifianakis’ Joker isn’t meant to be scary, he’s incredibly funny and a standout performance in a movie that’s all about making a point through humor.

7) Justice League / Justice League Unlimited – Mark Hamill

Prepare for Mark Hamill’s iconic performance as the Joker! While he appeared in both *Justice League* and *Justice League Unlimited*, Hamill’s skill made the character truly memorable. Whether partnering with Lex Luthor or acting alone, his Joker always struck the ideal balance between funny and frightening.

Viewers really enjoyed Mark Hamill’s Joker appearing alongside other DC characters, even though these team-up stories didn’t give his character as much focus as in previous Batman films and shows.

6) Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker – Mark Hamill

This movie, released directly to video, surprised viewers with its grim and violent portrayal of the Joker. Mark Hamill delivered a particularly unsettling performance in *Return of the Joker*, notably during a disturbing flashback where the Joker was depicted as a truly cruel and monstrous villain.

The movie is still loved by fans, and Mark Hamill’s portrayal of the Joker is now considered a defining part of the character’s history in the *Batman Beyond* universe.

5) Batman: The Killing Joke – Mark Hamill

Let’s be honest, tackling Alan Moore’s ‘The Killing Joke’ was a huge risk – it’s a story that always sparks debate. But Mark Hamill? He absolutely nailed it. His portrayal of the Joker was genuinely chilling, especially during those iconic monologues. That ‘one bad day’ speech? Forget about it – utterly unforgettable. He brought a real weight and menace to the character that truly stuck with me.

Okay, so the movie as a whole didn’t exactly blow everyone away, but let me tell you, Jack Hamill *nailed* the Joker. His performance felt incredibly true to the character from the comics, and honestly, it was genuinely unsettling – in the best way possible. He really captured something special and haunting with this take on the villain.

4) Batman: Under the Red Hood – John DiMaggio

John DiMaggio is famous for voicing Bender on Futurama, but he also delivered a strikingly dark and intense performance as the Joker in Under the Red Hood. His voice was rough, filled with sarcasm, and genuinely cruel, which perfectly fit the film’s serious tone. The movie delves into the Joker’s involvement in the tragic death of Jason Todd, and DiMaggio’s performance powerfully emphasized the heartbreak. Many fans and critics consider it one of the best Joker performances outside of Mark Hamill’s, consistently ranking it among the top five for its raw intensity.

3) Batman: The Animated Series – Mark Hamill

Mark Hamill’s portrayal of the Joker in *Batman: The Animated Series* is considered by many to be the best. For decades, his voice work defined how the character was animated, perfectly capturing the Joker’s chaotic energy, dark humor, and frightening unpredictability.

The series featured memorable episodes like “The Laughing Fish” and “Joker’s Favor,” helping to make this interpretation of Batman truly legendary. Many fans consider Mark Hamill to be the definitive Joker.

2) The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 & 2 – Michael Emerson

Though Mark Hamill is often considered the definitive Joker, Michael Emerson’s portrayal in *The Dark Knight Returns* is a very close second. Emerson, famous for his roles in *Lost* and *Person of Interest*, gave a subtly unsettling performance that perfectly matched the dark and gritty tone of Frank Miller’s story.

This version of the Joker was older and more subdued, but ultimately far scarier than previous iterations. His every line felt threatening, and his confrontation with Batman is considered a particularly brutal and disturbing moment in animated Joker history. Both viewers and reviewers praised Emerson’s portrayal, highlighting a Joker who was both refined and deeply frightening.

1) Harley Quinn – Alan Tudyk

Alan Tudyk’s portrayal of the Joker in the animated series *Harley Quinn* is often considered the best. He masterfully combines humor and genuine menace, shifting seamlessly between comical exaggeration, over-the-top performance, and truly frightening moments. This unpredictability is what makes him both hilarious and terrifying. He’s a perfect fit for the show’s edgy style, and a reminder of just how dangerous the Joker can be.

Viewers are loving Nathan Fillion’s take on the Joker, particularly because the show gives him so much interaction with Harley Quinn. His chaotic and surprising performance, along with clever writing, has made this version of the Joker a standout and many consider him the most complete animated Joker yet.

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2025-09-14 20:12