Why was Lady Gaga kissing a woman scene deleted? Joker: Folie a Deux director reveals

Fans of Lady Gaga have taken to social media to express their discontent after it was revealed that a notable scene featuring the pop icon was omitted from the highly anticipated film Joker: Folie à Deux. The scene, which showcased Gaga’s character, Harley Quinn (named Lee in this iteration), kissing another woman outside a courthouse, was filmed during the production but ultimately left on the cutting room floor.

Explanation by director Todd Phillips

Director Todd Phillips, in a candid interview with Entertainment Weekly, explained the rationale behind the decision to remove the scene. He stated that while the moment was an improvised touch that added depth to Lee’s character, its placement within the film’s musical sequence was problematic. The kiss occurred as Lee was performing a song and dance routine while ascending the courthouse steps to attend Arthur Fleck’s murder trial. Phillips noted that incorporating dialogue during this musical number would have disrupted the flow and coherence of the scene, ultimately detracting from the overall musicality intended for that moment.

The kiss scene, captured by paparazzi during filming, generated buzz among fans and media alike, heightening expectations for Gaga’s portrayal in the film. However, with the release of Folie à Deux, the absence of this poignant moment has left many questioning what could have been. The film, which is set to explore the intricate relationship between Joker and Harley Quinn, aims to blend psychological depth with musical elements, a significant departure from the darker tone of its predecessor.

Gaga’s fans, known for their passionate support, have taken to platforms like Twitter and Instagram to voice their disappointment. Many expressed a desire to see a more comprehensive representation of LGBTQ+ themes within the film, hoping that the kiss would have contributed to a more nuanced portrayal of Lee’s character.

Despite the controversy, Joker: Folie à Deux has already made waves at the box office, grossing impressive numbers since its release. While the scene may not have made it to the final cut, it undoubtedly adds another layer to the ongoing discourse about representation in film and the impact of creative choices in storytelling.