Joker was a $1 billion hit in 2019, proving the Clown Prince of Crime can work without a Batman to do battle with. Of course, while the movie took some significant liberties with the source material, Bruce Wayne - who may or may not be Arthur Fleck's half-brother - still played a role.
Despite Joker having all the makings of a standalone movie (it ended by revealing Fleck's role in inspiring the mugger who killed Thomas and Martha Wayne), Joker: Folie à Deux will be released in theaters later this year.
Described as a "jukebox musical," we're expecting the action to move into Arkham Asylum, with the spotlight put on Arthur and Harley Quinn.
Or should that be Lee?
Talking in the video below, Lady Gaga shares her excitement for the sequel and seemingly confirms a major change has been made to the iconic villain's name.
"You know, it was a really beautiful experience," the singer says. "I had the most amazing creative time and I always feel so lucky when I get to be creative every day, all day long. This movie has music in it, incredible actors in it, and a wonderful director [in] Todd Phillips.
"I just had a brilliant time. My version of Harley Quinn is 'Lee," Gaga teased. "In a lot of ways, I think this is going to be a very different Lee for people and I'm excited for them to see the story we wanted to tell."
We're assuming "Lee" is a nickname because the trailer featured stage decoration with "JOKER & HARLEY" emblazoned on it. Of course, that may well be all in Arthur's head and, just like he's named himself "Joker," Lee might decide she wants to be known as "Harley Quinn."
"You know, my version of Harley is mine and it’s very authentic to this movie and these characters," the Oscar and Grammy Award winner said in another recent interview. "I’ve never done anything like I’ve done in this movie before, so it’s all going to be completely brand new and really fun."
Margot Robbie played Harley Quinn in the DC Extended Universe and DC Studios boss James Gunn has strongly hinted we'll see her back in the role. As for Gaga's version, we'd imagine this will be a one-off role for the singer and actress.
Joker: Folie à Deux, which will fall under the "Elseworlds" banner and isn't part of DC Studios' new DCU, is set to be released in theaters on October 4, 2024, exactly five years after Joker debuted.