Jim Lee Dubs Harley Quinn 'Fourth Pillar' of DC Comics Line

CBR

By Anthony Couto

Published Aug 10, 2016

The DC Comics co-publisher says Harley Quinn is the company's most important character, after Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman.

In a new report, DC Comics co-publisher Jim Lee confirmed that the company has been pushing for more Harley Quinn in the comics, to the extent that the character is seen as the "fourth pillar" of the publisher's line, after DC's Trinity.

"I refer to her as the fourth pillar in our publishing line, behind Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman," Lee told Vulture.

Kevin Kiniry, vice-president of DC Collectibles, noted that the character is "always a top seller" that can "go toe to toe with Batman and the Joker as one of the most fan-requested and sought-after characters."

Lee says DC first took note of Harley's amazing popularity when the "Suicide Squad" covers featuring the character -- specifically, for the first volume that launched with the New 52 line -- sold far better than covers with other characters on the team.

It's been obvious for awhile that DC's been pushing for more Harley, especially if you consider how many titles the character has appeared in lately. Apart from featuring in Rebirth's "Suicide Squad," Harley stars in three separate ongoing series: "Harley Quinn," "Harley's Little Black Book" and "Harley Quinn and Her Gang of Harleys." On screen, Harley appears in the animated -- and incredibly lucrative -- "DC Super Hero Girls" franchise, is set to star in the animated feature "Batman and Harley Quinn," and of course, was the breakout star of "Suicide Squad." While the film wasn't received too well among critics, many viewers agree that Margot Robbie's take on Harley was a highlight of the film. Robbie recently indicated she's pushing for a sequel focused on Harley and the Joker, though nothing's been confirmed yet.

You can check out Harley Quinn in David Ayer's "Suicide Squad," in theaters now.