In the reimagined world of Batman: Caped Crusader, set in a noir-infused Gotham of the 1940s, the iconic villains are undergoing significant transformations. This is particularly true for Matthew Needham's Joker, who serves as the climactic antagonist of Season 2. This version of the Joker is distinct, marked by a somber demeanor, a lack of laughter, and a disturbing desire to "exterminate 'the vermin' of Gotham City."
This unique portrayal has led to speculation, with some fans questioning if this Joker has Nazi affiliations. In a recent interview with IGN, voice actor Matthew Needham addressed these theories, categorically denying any such backstory.
Needham explained that the producers had a very clear vision for a Joker unlike any seen before. "They didn't want a Joker that we had seen before. They wanted a very, very different take," he stated. The producers guided Needham away from the typical maniacal glee, directing him toward a "very cold, very calculating, soft-spoken version."
While Needham developed his own personal backstory for the character to better inhabit the role, this narrative did not involve any connection to the Nazi party. He and co-producer Geoffrey Thorne discovered they had developed similar backstories for the character independently, suggesting the writing itself hints at a dark past, but not one tied to Nazism.
The dynamic between Batman and Joker is also explored, with this Joker referring to Batman as "brother" and expressing a fascination with the Dark Knight. Needham suggests this stems from Joker seeing himself as a "singular entity" and being intrigued by Batman's mysterious vigilantism. He believes Batman's presence emboldens Joker and sparks his imagination, even if the Joker's existence doesn't depend on Batman.
Regarding the Season 2 finale, where the Joker's plan to unleash a modified Monster Men formula is foiled, and Batman employs what could be considered lethal force, Needham found the Joker's reaction telling. "I think it is a victory in some way" for the Joker, Needham mused, noting that the villain's only laugh in the season occurs when he is impaled, suggesting a dark amusement at the unfolding events.