Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy are two of the most iconic female villains in the DC Comics universe. Both went beyond their roles as antagonists to become anti-heroes with a significant impact on pop culture. Their friendship and romantic connection became a symbol of female emancipation and expanded the discussion about relationships in modern comics. In honor of the 85th anniversary of the iconic superhero Batman, Barbie has created two unparalleled fashion dolls based on the iconic and most famous villains of Gotham City: Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy.
These anti-hero dolls can already be ordered from Mattel Creations if you have a Barbie Club 59 card and in the nearest future they will be available to everyone in various marketplaces and online stores around the world!
Barbie Harley Quinn
"Knock, knock!" Harley Quinn is here, and she's bringing her signature brand of chaotic energy with her! Harley Quinn Barbie doll combines her classic clown-inspired look with the modern edgy elements that made the character a pop culture sensation. Every detail of this Harley Quinn Barbie doll reflects her chaotic nature. Her mismatched black and red elbow pads and knee pads give her a rough look, showcasing her love of diving headfirst into danger.
Accessories play an important role in making this doll fit the character. A necklace, studded belt and earrings complete the look, ensuring that Harley looks as stylish as she does dangerous. The doll's hairstyle and facial expression convey Harley's carefree attitude, making this Barbie a great tribute to one of DC's most entertaining villains.
Harley Quinn, whose real name is Dr. Harleen Quinzel, made her debut in the 1992 animated series Batman: The Animated Series, created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm. Originally conceived as the Joker's quirky sidekick and love interest, she was introduced as a character with a tragic yet humorous backstory. A former psychiatrist at Arkham Asylum, Dr. Quinzel fell in love with the Joker during therapy sessions, eventually transforming into Harley Quinn, trading in her medical gown for a harlequin suit.
Over the years, the character of Harley Quinn has changed significantly. At first, she was considered a victim of the Joker's cruel manipulations, but gradually gained freedom, freed from his toxic influence. This shift has become most apparent in recent comic book storylines and film adaptations such as Birds of Prey (2020), where Harley regains her independence. Her persona is a fascinating combination of whimsy, chaos and deep emotionality. Harley is often portrayed as unpredictable, intelligent, and fiercely loyal to those she loves. Even though she was a villain, her sense of humor and charm made her one of the most beloved characters in the DC universe.
Barbie Poison Ivy
Gotham City's eco-warrior, Poison Ivy, is as deadly as she is beautiful. This Barbie doll embodies Ivy's striking looks and fierce dedication to conservation.
With her chlorophyll-colored skin and bright green eyes, Poison Ivy is a stunning addition to any collection. The Poison Ivy Barbie doll celebrates Batman's 85th anniversary by recreating her ethereal beauty alongside her enduring environmental agenda. Don't be fooled by her natural charm—she's armed and dangerous with her crossbow on her wrist and a fearsome Venus flytrap at her side.
The design of this doll is full of natural touches that reflect the plant powers of Poison Ivy. Creeping vines adorn her boots, symbolizing her ability to manipulate the plant world, and her flowing red hair contrasts sharply with her green skin, conveying Ivy's deadly allure. These organic elements bring to life Ivy's character as a human-plant hybrid.
A leaf-shaped crown and earrings emphasize her connection with nature, and her hand with a crossbow is always ready to strike. This Barbie doll embodies the multifaceted nature of Poison Ivy: a stunning, nature-loving villain whose beauty hides her deadly powers.
Poison Ivy, born Pamela Ailey, first appeared in Batman #181 in 1966. Created by writer Robert Kaniger and artist Sheldon Moldoff, Ivy was originally conceived as a plant-obsessed femme fatale. As a gifted botanist, she turned to a life of crime after a series of events led to her resistance to toxins and the ability to control plant life.
Over time, the character of Poison Ivy grew beyond her role as a simple temptress. In more modern storylines, she is portrayed as a complex character driven by a deep-rooted environmental agenda. Her motivations often revolve around protecting the environment from human exploitation, making her one of DC's most positive villains. She is a passionate eco-terrorist who believes that humanity is destroying the natural world and must be stopped at all costs.
Although often at odds with Batman and other heroes, Ivy has recently become more of an anti-hero, particularly as her environmental activism has resonated with real concerns about climate change. Poison Ivy's power is directly related to her botanical expertise. She can control plants, create deadly toxins, and is immune to most poisons. Her plant powers give her a unique advantage in combat, but her intelligence is no less dangerous. Unlike many villains who rely on brute force, Ivy often manipulates her environment and even human emotions to achieve her goals.
Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy
Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy have been close friends in the comics for years, their bond gradually blossoming into a romantic relationship. This dynamic has been explored in various media, including animated shows like Harley Quinn (2019), where the love story takes center stage.
Their relationship is notable not only for its portrayal of LGBTQ+ romance in mainstream comics, but also for its portrayal of mutual respect and support. While Harley's relationship with the Joker was characterized by manipulation and violence, her relationship with Ivy is one of empowerment and growth. Ivy often helps Harley find her independence, while Harley discovers a more human and emotional side of Ivy.
Together, Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy represent a shift in how female characters are portrayed in comics. They are no longer just "partners" or lovers, they are complex individuals with their own narratives, motivations, and activities. Both heroines challenge traditional gender roles, break stereotypes and embrace their identities, making them feminist icons in the comic book world.
Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy are more than just villains in the DC Comics universe. They are symbols of independence, resilience and transformation. They proved to be dynamic characters that resonated with audiences on many levels, and their impact on pop culture and comic book history remains profound, influencing not only the portrayal of female characters, but broader discussions of relationships, agency, and identity.
The Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy Barbie dolls will be the perfect addition to both collectors and fans of comics and the DC universe. Each doll reflects the unique personality and design of these iconic characters, from the chaotic look of Harley to the ethereal yet deadly Poison Ivy. In celebration of Batman's 85th birthday, these dolls pay homage to Gotham's greatest villains, perfectly combining Barbie's playful essence with the rich history of DC Comics.