DC Comic lovers and fans around the world were shocked when it was announced that the new Superman will be bisexual. American comic book publisher, DC Comics, announced on Monday that the new Superman character in its next issue will be bisexual.
According to a statement by the company, the new Bisexual Superman character, referred to as Superman of Earth, will present the life of Jon Kent, son of the original Superman, Clark Kent, and Lois Lane. In the comic books, Jon Kent takes over the mantle of Superman from his father, Clark, after the latter decides to focus on extra-terrestrial events.
Jon Kent has previously been depicted aiding the world against climate change, supporting refugees, as well as traveling across galaxies with his Kryptonian grandfather.
Few storyline details have been revealed, but the plot will see Jon Kent strike up a friendship and later fall for pink-haired reporter Jay Nakamura, DC Comics said. The romance will bloom after Jon seeks support from the stresses of “trying to save everyone that he can” in the pages of “Superman: Son of Kal-El #5,” written by Tom Taylor alongside artist John Timms.
Fans reactions to the news
Writer Tom Taylor said, “I’ve always said everyone needs heroes and everyone deserves to see themselves in their heroes and I’m very grateful DC and Warner Bros share this idea”. He added “Superman’s symbol has always stood for hope, for truth, and justice. Today, that symbol represents something more. Today, more people can see themselves as the most powerful superhero in comics.
New York-based illustrator Joseph Giampietro added: “Happy national coming out day! Congrats to Jon Kent for coming out as bisexual. @TomTaylorMade and @johntimmsart have done such an amazing job on this book and it’s so great to have an LGBTQIA+ Superman!”
Some fans pointed out that instead of rewriting popular characters as queer, writers and producers should focus on creating “whole new characters” that celebrate LGBT+ identities.
“I’m all for supporting the LGBTQ community. But it’s getting out of hand comic-book-wise. They’re turning characters that [have] been around for years into something they are not. Just for the sake of looking ‘woke.’ Why not create a whole new character that’s gay?!?!” wrote one person.
Another fan added: “So today DC said ‘let’s just use the gays as tropes.’ Again just taking a popular character, saying he is Bi, and smacking the famous symbol on his chest is not representation. I rather them create a whole new character that celebrates his identity.”
Ohio-based Republican politician Josh Mandel tweeting: “Bisexual comic books for kids. They are literally trying to destroy America.”
