Who killed Arthur Fleck in Joker 2? There are 5 suspects

As a long-time fan of the Joker, having watched every iteration from Jack Nicholson to Heath Ledger, I can confidently say that the identity of Arthur Fleck‘s killer in Joker 2 is a puzzle that has left many of us scratching our heads.


If you sat through Joker 2 this weekend, you likely have two questions. 

The first is probably, “What the hell was that?” Well, I’m sorry, but I can’t answer that here (although our Joker 2 review may), but I can help you with your second question… as long as that question is: “Who killed the Joker in Joker 2?” (Sorry if it was something else, I’m not psychic.)

Indeed, Folie à Deux concludes with Arthur Fleck encountering his demise at the hands of a madman, whose identity remains shrouded in enigma. One might wonder if this elusive menace could be the Man who Chortles, a potential supervillain poised to engage in an eternal struggle against Gotham’s vigilante protector, the Dark Knight.

It’s plausible, but there are other individuals under suspicion for this crime. The killer may have merely been a piece on a larger chessboard, controlled by an unseen criminal mastermind who orchestrated Arthur’s tragic death. So, who was truly responsible for the Joker’s killing? Let me lay out five potential candidates… be prepared for some peculiar theories ahead.

Who murdered the Joker?

Harley Quinn

Who killed Arthur Fleck in Joker 2? There are 5 suspects

It’s plausible that Harley may have arranged for Arthur’s death, considering she rejected him publicly and had shown signs of being an unbalanced storyteller with substantial means. In such a scenario, it wouldn’t be surprising if she manipulated the situation by bribing the corrupt guards at Arkham to look the other way while her paid assassin eliminated Arthur.

It’s plausible that Arthur’s demise could be at the hands of the one who held deep affection for him, much like he himself ended the lives of those he loved dearly – his mother and Murray Franklin. However, there’s no solid evidence linking Harley to Arthur’s death. Though she was undeniably obsessive and posed a threat, it remains unclear if she had murderous intentions.

The Arkham Guards

Who killed Arthur Fleck in Joker 2? There are 5 suspects

It’s plausible to conclude that the guards at Arkham were responsible for initiating Arthur’s murder. Throughout the film, they treated Arthur as if he were a circus clown for their amusement, but it was evident that his courtroom behavior significantly angered them.

As a gamer, I can’t help but wonder if Jacky, old pal Jackie, wasn’t the one who framed Arthur. You know, it would make sense of that knowing nod he gave me when I walked into the TV room and also explain why none of the guards leaped to my aid as I lay there, bleeding out.

Not only that, but they might view themselves as saviors, wiping away the grime from Gotham’s shoes. However, it’s important to note that this is all speculation. While Jackie and the guards were undeniably harsh, there’s no evidence suggesting they were murderers.

The ‘Real’ Joker

Who killed Arthur Fleck in Joker 2? There are 5 suspects

It’s clear that Arthur was killed by the man who would later be known as Gotham’s real Clown Prince of Crime. If this is true, he probably acted alone or on a whim, since the Joker is famous for his spontaneous and senseless acts of violence.

There’s lots of proof suggesting this theory: The person accused of murder seems to have many similarities with the character of the Joker. He exhibited traits like cruelty, a fondness for violence, and a dark sense of humor. Additionally, he inflicted a Glasgow smile upon himself – an injury often associated with the Joker due to Heath Ledger’s memorable portrayal in the role.

You did

There’s no need for concern; I’m not accusing you of being a literal murderer. However, your response seems particularly convincing.

One intriguing aspect of the upcoming Joker sequel lies in its exploration of identity and notoriety (or negative fame for Arthur). It seems that fans of Harley and the Joker care little about Arthur unless he’s adorned with white grease paint and a flamboyant costume.

Once he removes his makeup and decides to be himself, Arthur, Harley breaks up with him. The ending of Joker 2 could symbolize Philip’s assumption that fans, similar to Harley, would grow tired of Arthur (both as a character in the movie and the overall Joker series) when he renounces that persona.

The killer symbolizes us, the spectators, as we, like Harley, have grown tired of Arthur and are ready to embrace something new. Indeed, it’s intriguing to ponder that we might have accomplished what Batman could not – ending the Joker’s reign.

David Zaslav

Who killed Arthur Fleck in Joker 2? There are 5 suspects

In conclusion, an alternative interpretation could be that the murderer symbolizes David Zaslav or Warner Bros., as Todd Phillips has openly stated his departure from the Joker series post-“Folie à Deux.” Nevertheless, it’s clear that Warner Bros. has other plans for the character, indicating they may not share Phillips’ perspective.

The villain known as the Harlequin of Hate is likely to resurface, whether it’s in Joker 3, James Gunn’s upcoming DC Universe, or The Batman 2. This recurring character symbolizes the continuous transformation of the Joker, with each incarnation representing a new death and rebirth, as one version of Batman’s arch-nemesis dies only to be replaced by another in different movies or franchises.

I told you we were going to get weird with it.

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2024-10-07 14:18