Beware the Creeper, indeed! Aptly named, “The Creeper” is a pushy, entitled, and narcissistic maniac with yellow skin, green hair, and a perma-grin. In the Animated Series, The Creeper’s personality manifests as a result of acute exposure to Joker’s laughing gas and several steeps in a vat of chemical soup. His sudden excessive energy, disconnected and racing thought-pattern, grandiose beliefs, and inappropriate social behavior point to possible mania, which on its own introduces little threat or danger. Unlike most Bat-Villains, The Creeper doesn’t engage in violent, homicidal behavior — he seems “non-threatening” to most. When The Creeper meets Harley Quinn, the story shifts; his goal is ownership of her and his motivations are revealed to be pushy, aggressive, and predatory toward women. Harley is her unmistaken, usual self: autonomous, outspoken, and, when necessary, combative. Her opposition to The Creeper’s physical advances is clear and direct. But he does not seek consent. The Creeper’s repetitive, unrelenting attempts to touch and kiss Harley create a dynamic that feels equally recognizable and infuriating. As Dr. Letamendi framed the episode, “If we are going to discuss a character who assaults women and gets away with it, I guess now would be the time.”

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