Stan Lee has recently announced that he'll be unveiling the world's first gay superhero in a new UK TV drama that follows Thom Creed, a high school basketball player, who is trying to hide his newfound powers and developing sexuality.
Unfortunately, Stan Lee forgets that there are many gay superheroes currently in the comic book universe, one of whom is Northstar from Marvel Comics.
For a full list of LGBT superheroes check here
Implications - There is a real sense of excitement from comic book fans and those who appreciate the influence of comics on pop culture about the introduction of a gay superhero. While many believe it was only a matter of time, as television has become increasingly gay-friendly to reflect the changing norms of society, Stan Lee intends to ensure the first gay superhero is a real success.
Gay Superheroes
Stan Lee Unveils Thom Creed, High School Basketball Player
Trend Themes
1. LGBT Representation in Comics - The introduction of the first gay superhero has created excitement and a demand for more inclusive representation in comics, creating an opportunity for comic book companies to expand their market and attract a more diverse audience.
2. Exploring Intersectionality in Superheroes - The emerging LGBT superhero trend presents an opportunity to explore intersectionality by creating superheroes that represent multiple marginalized identities, such as people of color and people with disabilities.
3. Social Justice Themes in Comics - As comic book companies continue to push for more diverse representation and explore intersectionality, there is an opportunity to introduce social justice themes into their storylines and inspire readers to take action and create change.
Industry Implications
1. Comic Book - The trend of LGBT representation in comics presents an opportunity for comic book companies to expand their market, appeal to a more diverse audience, and inspire readers with social justice themes.
2. TV and Film - As the popularity of superheroes continues to grow in movies and television, the emergence of LGBT superheroes presents an opportunity for production companies to create more inclusive content and appeal to a wider audience.
3. Social Activism - The emergence of social justice themes in comic books creates an opportunity for social activists to use these stories as a tool for education, activism, and social change.