Every Iconic Joker Ranked: The 7 Best Portrayals of The Joker in Film and TV

In 2016, Academy Award-winning actor Jared Leto took on the daunting task of portraying the Joker in the highly anticipated “Suicide Squad.” Known for his unwavering commitment to method acting, Leto immersed himself in the role like no other, blurring the lines between reality and performance. His off-screen antics became the stuff of legend, as he “gifted” his co-stars with unsettling tokens, including used condoms, a dead pig, and even a live rat. While the film itself received mixed reviews, Leto’s dedication to the character was undeniable.

For over two decades, Mark Hamill has been the voice that has brought the Joker to life in various animated adaptations of the DC Universe. From the groundbreaking “Batman: The Animated Series” in 1992 to the critically acclaimed “Batman: The Killing Joke” in 2016, Hamill has brought the iconic character to life in many formats.

In Tim Burton’s 1989 blockbuster “Batman,” Jack Nicholson delivered a performance that would forever changed The Joker. With his signature deranged grin and manic energy, Nicholson embodied the character’s descent into madness with a chilling authenticity that left audiences both captivated and terrified. Nicholson’s portrayal was a masterful blend of dark humor and unhinged violence, showcasing his remarkable versatility as an actor.

In what would tragically become his final performance, Heath Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker in Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight” is widely regarded as one of the greatest performances in modern cinema. Ledger’s commitment to the role was unparalleled, as he delved deep into the psyche of a madman, emerging with a performance that would forever redefine the character.

Ledger’s performance was so immersive that it blurred the lines between actor and character. He posthumously won the Academy Award for his incredible performance.

In a surprising departure from the gritty and intense portrayals that have become aligned with the Joker, Zach Galifianakis lent his comedic talents to the character in the animated film “The LEGO Batman Movie.” Galifianakis’ Joker was a delightfully zany and over-the-top interpretation, perfectly suited to the whimsical world of LEGO. His performance received critical acclaim for the comedic timing.

Before the Joker became a symbol of psychological terror, Cesar Romero brought a campy charm to the character in the 1960s “Batman” TV series. With his iconic mustache peeking out from beneath the white makeup and his playful, cartoonish antics, Romero’s Joker was a far cry from the sinister portrayals that would follow.

Yet, Romero’s performance holds a special place in the hearts of fans, as it captured the essence of the character’s mischievous spirit and penchant for over-the-top villainy. His portrayal was a delightful nod to the Joker’s roots in the comic book world, a reminder that beneath the chaos and mayhem, there was a mischievous clown at the heart of the character.

In Todd Phillips’ controversial “Joker,” Joaquin Phoenix delivered a tour de force performance that redefined the character for a new generation. Phoenix’s portrayal of Arthur Fleck, a struggling comedian who descends into madness, was a haunting exploration of mental illness, societal alienation, and the birth of a twisted legend.

Phoenix’s commitment to the role was evident in his dramatic physical transformation, shedding over 50 pounds to embody the tormented Fleck. Phoenix won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his remarkable performance.

Joker: Folie à Deux is in theaters now.