Arleen Sorkin, 'Days of Our Lives' Star & Harley Quinn Voice, Passes at 67



by NOUMAN RASOOL

Arleen Sorkin, 'Days of Our Lives' Star & Harley Quinn Voice, Passes at 67
Arleen Sorkin, 'Days of Our Lives' Star & Harley Quinn Voice, Passes at 67 © Alberto E. Rodriguez/GettyImages

Arleen Sorkin, the iconic actress from "Days of Our Lives" and the pioneering voice behind DC's Harley Quinn, has passed away at 67. Her prolonged battle with multiple sclerosis came to a close, as confirmed by a representative for her husband, screenwriter Christopher Lloyd.

The family urges well-wishers to direct their donations to the National MS Society. Arleen's family shared, "Arleen's tremendous spirit will forever be etched in our hearts. Beyond her undoubted talent, her determination shone through, especially during her long fight with a devastating illness.

She left an indelible mark, as a loving figure to her sons, Eli and Owen; her mother, Joyce; and her brothers, Robert and Arthur. Her nurturing nature touched many lives, and today, as we mourn, countless individuals remember her fondly, and with a smile."

Harley Quinn: Sorkin's Iconic Legacy

Sorkin's standout role as Harley Quinn began in 1992 in "Batman: The Animated Series." Originally slated for a single episode, her portrayal resonated deeply, leading to eight more episodes and countless other reprisals in various media.

This character has grown exponentially, with Margot Robbie embodying Harley in live-action films, and Kaley Cuoco lending her voice in an animated series. Notable names like DC's James Gunn and Mark Hamill, who worked opposite Sorkin as the Joker, expressed their heartfelt condolences.

Hamill tweeted, "Devastated to learn we've lost the brilliant Arleen Sorkin... a truly wonderful person. I'm grateful not only to have worked with her, but to have been her friend." Tara Strong, another voice of Harley Quinn, tweeted, "Without this gorgeous, talented goddess, #HarleyQuinn would have never existed...

Sending love to her family #RipArleenSorkin." Arleen's journey in showbiz began in the 1970s with a comedy troupe. Her notable stint on "Days of Our Lives" as Calliope Jones Bradford earned her two Daytime Emmy nominations.

Sorkin's most iconic role as Harley Quinn was, interestingly, tailored for her by Paul Dini, her college buddy. Dini once stated that Sorkin's comedic flair and distinct accent were pivotal inspirations for Harley. She leaves behind her husband, Christopher Lloyd, and their sons, Eli and Owen.

As the world mourns her loss, Arleen's vibrant spirit and significant contributions to the world of entertainment will forever be celebrated.