10 Villain Couples in DC Comics That Will Leave You Speechless!

Summary

General Zod & Ursa’s deep love story defies the odds
Brain & Mallah’s unique, emotional bond makes them stand out
Joker & Harley Quinn’s dysfunctional but iconic relationship is a fan-favorite

In the DC Universe, there are some of the most well-known villains found in stories, such as The Joker, Lex Luthor, and Harley Quinn. Although they are villains, these characters can show deep bonds and even romantic relationships, creating both exciting and chilling duos.

As a devotee to the darker side of the DC Universe, I’ve observed that some of the most formidable adversaries aren’t necessarily solo acts. Whether our paths initially crossed as joint opponents against a legendary hero or we merely happened to cross paths while seeking our next great prize, these partnerships have proven invaluable – even when facing off against the iconic heroes of DC Comics. In this exploration, we delve into the top villain duos from the pages of DC Comics and uncover what makes them so captivating.

8. General Zod & Ursa

The Kryptonian Power Couple

First Comic Appearance – Adventure Comics #283 (General Zod) / Adventure Comics #845 (Ursa)
Creators – Robert Bernstein, George Papp (General Zod) / Mario Puzo, David Newman (Ursa)

In their militaristic society on Krypton, General Zod found little time for romance due to his leadership role. Yet, amidst the clamor of battles, he crossed paths with his future spouse, Usra – a formidable warrior who proved to be an ideal match for Zod. Together they bore a son named Lor-Zod.

While some versions might portray Faora in place of Ursa, the dynamic between Zod and Ursa is more captivating and consistent. The most intriguing tale involving these two Krypton warriors unfolds in Action Comics #984, where they are depicted standing together against Superman in a joint battle.

7. The Brain & Monsieur Mallah

The Strangest Couple In DC

First Comic Appearance – Doom Patrol #86 (The Bain and Monsieur Mallah)
Creators – Arnold Drake, Bruno Peemiani (The Bain and Monsieur Mallah)

This duo, distinctively peculiar within the realm of the DC Universe, has an unusual backstory. The Brain, initially a gifted scientist, met a tragic fate in an explosion. Yet, it wasn’t long before this demise was challenged as Mallah retrieved him, transferring his brain into a protective vessel.

Originally, the duo sought retribution against the scientist who initiated the blast, eventually founding the Brotherhood of Evil. Over time, they have collaborated frequently, creating trouble for groups like the Doom Patrol and Teen Titans. Despite their unconventional bond, they harbor a profound emotional attachment and it has been officially acknowledged that they are in love.

6. Joker & Harley Quinn

The Most Iconic Super-Villain Couple

First Comic Appearance – Batman #1 (Joker) / The Batman Adventures #12 (Harley Quinn)
Creators – Bill Finger, Bob Kane (Joker) / Paul Dini, Bruce Timm (Harley Quinn)

In DC Comics, arguably the most well-known yet troubled connection belongs to The Joker and Harley Quinn. It’s not unexpected, considering the Joker’s distorted mindset, that this relationship leans heavily on one side: Harley has dedicated her life to the Joker, while he tends to view her as a resource rather than an equal.

Despite being notoriously toxic, the tumultuous bond between this couple often captivates fans in the DC Universe, and fortunately, there are narratives where The Joker exhibits an authentic affection for Harley. This unhealthy relationship, despite its abusive nature, earns a spot on our list due to its legendary and notorious status within the DC Universe.

5. Killer Croc & Enchantress

Beauty And The Beast

First Comic Appearance – Detective Comics #523 (Killer Croc) / Strange Adventures #187 (Enchantress)
Creators – Gerry Conway (Killer Croc) / Bob Haney, Howard Purcell (Enchantress)

Initially regarded as an unusual fan speculation, Killer Croc and Enchantress have emerged as a beloved pairing among fans, who eagerly anticipate further developments between them. The Beauty and the Beast-esque dynamic between these characters has been subtly suggested for years, with their first significant appearance together in Suicide Squad #20 (2016) marking a milestone.

Despite its brief duration, fans have long advocated for an extended comic series featuring the unconventional pairing of Killer Croc and June Moore, as they believe this relationship could offer a unique and engaging narrative. The juxtaposition of Killer Croc’s monstrous exterior with June Moore’s inner struggle against the Enchantress creates a compelling storyline.

4. Joker & Punchline

The Jokers’ Most Functional Relationship

First Comic Appearance – Batman #1 (Joker) / Batman Volume 3 #89 (Punchline)
Creators – Bill Finger, Bob Kane (Joker) / James Tynion IV (Punchline)

The bond between The Joker and Punchline shares some similarities with his relationship with Harley Quinn, but there’s a noticeable difference – The Joker appears to show more respect towards Punchline than he did toward Harley. Unlike the boisterous and attention-seeking Harley, Punchline is typically quiet and imposing, serving as an alternative character to Harley.

It seems clear that The Joker harbors genuine emotions for Punchline, frequently viewing her as a fellow criminal partner and even referring to her as the “funniest woman” he has encountered. During the Joker War, this duo played a significant role, with Punchline functioning as the Joker’s trusted ally.

3. Punch & Jewelee

Childhood Sweethearts Turned Super-Villains

First Comic Appearance – Captain Atom #85 (Punch and Jewelee)
Creators – David Kaler, Steve Ditko (Punch and Jewelee)

Punch and Jewelee are among the most tender and affectionate pairs in the DC Universe. Originally, these jesters were sweethearts from childhood who found themselves entangled in a life of criminal activity after stumbling upon long-forgotten alien technology. Unable to resist the allure, they decided to harness this tech to transform into super-villains.

Initially dismissed as mere imitations of the Joker and Harley Quinn, fans often jested about their cheapness, but over time, this duo evolved into formidable and feared villains. Despite meeting untimely ends in various narratives, they had a heartwarming conclusion where they abandoned their criminal lives to start a family.

2. Victor & Nora Fries

A Tragic Love Story

First Comic Appearance – Batman #121 (Mr Freeze) / Batman: Mr Freeze (Nora Fries)
Creators – David Wood, Sheldon Moldoff (Mr Freeze) / Paul Dini, Bruce Timm (Nora Fries)

In my view, the heartrending narrative of Victor and Nora Fries unfolds as an undeniably tragic tale. Reminiscing about our past, we met at a boarding school where sparks ignited between us, leading to an ardent affection that culminated in marriage soon after. Unfortunately, fate dealt Nora a devastating blow when she was diagnosed terminally ill. With unwavering devotion, Victor preserved her life by freezing her in cryostasis, vowing to tirelessly search for a miraculous cure to resurrect our love.

Victor’s quest for a remedy led him on a dismal journey, transforming into one of Batman’s most intriguing and well-known adversaries, Mr. Freeze. The unscrupulous deeds of Mr. Freeze are primarily driven by his deep affection for Nora, as he relentlessly pursues the cure. Despite the rare instances of a joyous conclusion, in one narrative arc, Nora was healed from her affliction and became Mrs. Freeze.

1. Harley Quinn & Poison Ivy

DC’s Most Popular Super-Villain Couple

First Comic Appearance – The Batman Adventures #12 (Harley Quinn) / Batman #181(Poison Ivy)
Creators – Paul Dini, Bruce Timm (Harley Quinn) / Robert Kanigher, Carmine Infanito (Poison Ivy)

Following her departure from The Joker, Harley Quinn’s bond with Poison Ivy evolved into a romantic one, solidifying their status as an acknowledged couple across many DC publications. Although speculation and fan-written stories about them had been circulating for years, it wasn’t until 2016 that they were officially confirmed as a couple. In a significant development, they even got married in the comic series “Injustice: Year Zero #8” in 2020.

Regardless of their initial roles as love interests for Batman and the Joker, they have since evolved into the DC Universe’s most formidable villainous duo. Their standout tales as a couple are primarily found in the ongoing Harley Quinn comics, the Harley Quinn & Poison Ivy Miniseries, and the animated Harley Quinn series.

2025-02-24 15:46