New Superman comes out as bisexual in upcoming DC comic
DC Comics is ready to embrace diversity for its superheroes. The comic book publishers have announced on Monday that the new Superman character, who is the son of Clark Kent and Lois Lane, will have a romantic relationship with a male friend.
The ongoing comic Superman: Son of Kal-El by writer Tom Taylor and artist John Timms launched in July and saw Jon Kent officially take up the mantle of the Man of Steel.
Kent and budding journalist Jay Nakamua struck up a friendship in a story released in August. They will share a kiss in a comic to be published next month, the publisher said, describing Kent as ‘bisexual.’
"Following a scene where Superman mentally and physically burns out from trying to save everyone that he can, Jay is there to care for the Man of Steel," DC Comics said.
The storyline will feature in Son of Kal-El issue five, due to hit shelves on November 9, the publisher said in a press release headlined "Jon Kent finds his identity."
"Today, more people can see themselves in the most powerful superhero in comics," said series writer Taylor. Fans took to social media to express their joy at the development.
"This news about Superman makes my queer heart glad, knowing the positive impact it will have on so many young folks today & in the future," tweeted actor Anthony Rapp.
In March, Marvel Comics announced its first gay Captain America and Aquamanintroduced a Black, gay superhero earlier this summer.
The latest Robin in the Batman comics came out as bisexual in August. While the new Superman is not the first LGBTQ comic book character, he is arguably the most recognizable.
DC Comics made the announcement on National Coming Out Day. US President Joe Biden released a statement saying his administration was "committed" to fighting for LGBTQ rights.
In the Son of Kal-Elseries the new Superman has already been proving himself a different type of superhero to his father, who has been fighting a number of social justice issues, including tackling wildfires sparked by climate change and protesting the deportation of refugees.