The Top 10 Joker Actors of All Time, Ranked by Fans

Ranker is a well-known platform where users can rank virtually anything according to their preferences. This fan-driven ranking system is independent of the creators behind the projects being ranked. Recently, Ranker conducted a large survey to identify the greatest Joker performances of all time, encompassing both movies and TV shows. The survey resulted in a list of 20 contenders, but in this report, we’ll focus on the top ten performances, offering our own insights and commentary to enrich the discussion.

Given the significance of this list, we’re excited to present the results, ranked from 10th to 1st place, with the top spot representing the ultimate performance. This list includes portrayals from various works featuring the Joker. We hope you enjoy exploring these iconic performances!

The list begins with a voice actor who played the Joker in The Batman, an often-overlooked animated series from the mid-2000s, as well as in a nearly forgotten animated film. While his performance was solid, his portrayal of the character was quite distinct, leaving little for us to add. Although he deserves recognition on this list given the competition, his performance doesn’t rank among the all-time best.

9. Troy Baker

Another animated voice actor, Troy Baker, was once seen as a potential successor to Mark Hamill. Despite the similarities and the high quality of his interpretation, he never quite reached the same iconic status. Baker voiced the Joker in various animated projects and video games, and while he deserves a higher spot on this list compared to some others, he still isn’t among the most memorable Jokers of all time.

8. John DiMaggio

It’s a bit of a puzzle how John DiMaggio ended up ranked higher than Troy Baker, but he did portray the Joker in several animated projects, primarily within the Lego DC franchise. While his performance was solid, it wasn’t particularly memorable. We find it more comparable to Richardson’s portrayal rather than Baker’s, which is why we’ve placed DiMaggio in the ninth spot on this list.

7. Zach Galifianakis

In The Lego Batman Movie, Zach Galifianakis delivered a unique and intriguing vocal interpretation of the Joker. While he might rank slightly lower than Troy Baker in our opinion, his portrayal undeniably deserves a spot on this list. His take on the Joker is memorable and distinct, and we found it particularly enjoyable.

6. Cameron Monaghan

Cameron Monaghan from Gotham portrayed two versions of the Joker—Jerome and Jeremiah Valeska—serving as the show’s take on the iconic character. Both performances were outstanding, showcasing Monaghan’s skill in handling the intricate role. While we would place him in the top five, this ranking is still well-deserved and reflects the impact of his performances.

5. Cesar Romero

This is the ranking we’d adjust to place Monaghan’s Jokers higher, but we recognize the cultural significance of Romero’s portrayal as the first Joker. His campy and humorous performance was a great fit for the comic book style of its era. There’s no denying the historical importance of this interpretation, so while we might prefer a different order, we understand why Romero’s Joker holds this spot.

4. Joaquin Phoenix

Phoenix’s portrayal of Arthur Fleck, the failed comedian, was exceptional, even though it deviates from the traditional comic book Joker. The film presented a unique and brilliant reinterpretation of the character. Phoenix’s performance as the mentally troubled Fleck was outstanding, which is why we believe it rightfully deserves a place in the top five.

3. Jack Nicholson

As the first mainstream live-action Joker, Jack Nicholson fused the campy elements of Romero’s portrayal with the darker aspects of the character from the 80s and 90s comics. His performance was unforgettable and reinforced why Jack Nicholson is considered one of the greatest actors of all time.

2. Mark Hamill

While Heath Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker for a modern audience is undeniably impressive, we still consider Mark Hamill’s voice performance to be the definitive Joker of all time. Hamill’s portrayal has left a lasting impact, creating a version of the character that will be remembered for generations. There’s no doubt that he stands among the very best.

1. Heath Ledger

While we personally might have placed Hamill in the top spot, Ledger’s Oscar-winning performance was truly remarkable. His portrayal offered a fresh, unconventional take on the Joker, tailored for modern audiences. With its compelling story, unique interpretation, and chaotic essence, Ledger’s performance unquestionably deserves its place here, regardless of our personal preferences. This is certainly a performance for the history books.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments below!

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