The Joker Returns In Harley Quinn #11

The Joker makes his first Rebirth appearance in Harley Quinn #11

Joker and Harley Quinn are one of the most iconic relationships in comic books. Unfortunately, it’s for all the wrong reasons. While Harley was always loyal & committed to her “puddin”, at the best of times Joker was extremely manipulative. At the worst of times, he was psychotically violent to her.

That’s why it was such a huge moment when Harley finally really not just broke things off with the Joker, but beat the hell out of him in a long-overdue moment earlier this year:

DC Comics

But that was back in the New 52 era. Joker has been scarce since the start of Rebirth. Batman’s actually pretty busy with giant monster men, syndicates and whatnot, so Joker is checking on his old ex, and like many abusive exes, of course he’s claiming he’s changed for the better. Check out a preview of Harley Quinn #11 below:

"HARLEY QUINN #11Written by Amanda Conner and Jimmy PalmiottiArt by John Timms and Hi-FiPublished by DC ComicsRelease Date: January 4, 2017“JOKER LOVES HARLEY” part one! For months now, strange reminders of Harley’s time with the Joker have been popping up in the most unexpected places… is this coincidence? Or a message? As our tale begins, Harley is introduced to a newer, kinder Joker… and Red Tool is not happy about it!"

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Whatever the Joker has to say to Harley, he is sticking around for more than one issue, the February solicits hint at him popping a very big (and probably very loaded) question to Harley, so this will be an extended arc. I don’t think anyone believes the Joker is reformed from being a psychotic serial killer, but could he be a kinder, gentler clown prince of crime when it comes to his former queen? Find out with Harley Quinn #11, which comes out next Wednesday, January 4th!

h/t Comicosity