Lady Gaga surprises as Harley Quinn in Joker sequel, says casting director

Lady Gaga's role as Harley Quinn in the upcoming Joker sequel has taken both fans and the film crew by surprise, as revealed by casting director Francine Maisler during a panel at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in the Czech Republic.

Contrary to expectations, Maisler disclosed that Gaga, 38, wasn't initially her first choice for the role. It was director Todd Phillips who advocated strongly for Gaga to star alongside Joaquin Phoenix in the film.

"She’s so good in it, you guys. She’s going to blow your mind," Maisler remarked enthusiastically. "I didn’t suggest Lady Gaga. It wasn’t my idea. That was Todd Phillips, before me."

Maisler continued to praise Gaga's performance, expressing astonishment at the depth and authenticity she brought to the character. "We all knew what she could do in A Star Is Born, but this … man, she’s good," Maisler added, highlighting Gaga's ability to match Phoenix's intensity in portraying the iconic characters.

Phoenix, 49, reprises his role as Arthur Fleck, the infamous Joker, in the forthcoming DC Comics thriller set to hit theaters on October 4. His performance in the previous film earned him the Best Actor award at the 2020 Oscars.

Given Gaga's musical background, the new film will incorporate numerous cover songs into its soundtrack, described as a "jukebox musical" featuring at least 15 well-known tunes alongside original compositions.

Titled Folie à Deux, the R-rated sequel explores the complex relationship between Gaga's Harley Quinn and Phoenix's Joker as they descend into madness together at Arkham State Hospital in Gotham City. The term "folie à deux" translates from French to "madness for two," underscoring the psychological themes central to the film.

Joining Gaga and Phoenix in the cast are acclaimed actors Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener, and Zazie Beetz, among others. The sequel boasts a significantly larger budget of $200 million compared to its predecessor's $60 million, reflecting high expectations for its box office success.

As anticipation mounts for Gaga's transformative performance in Joker: Folie à Deux, audiences await the cinematic spectacle that promises to blend thrilling storytelling with memorable musical moments on screen.