In 1938, DC Comics introduced Superman, its first costumed superhero. Today, Superman remains arguably the world’s best-known superhero. In his next comic book appearance, the Man of Steel will come out as bisexual.
Superman Is Bisexual
On Monday, DC Comics announced that Jon Kent, the fictional son of the original Superman (Clark Kent) and current Superman, will be taking a “bold new direction” on November 9, 2021. Much like his father, Kent will fall in love with a reporter. But unlike Clark Kent, his son will become romantically involved with another man.
The announcement was made on National Coming Out Day, a day members of the LGBTQ community celebrate making their sexual orientation known.
The story, which will appear in SUPERMAN: SON OF KAL-EL #5, will follow Jon Kent’s journey of becoming mentally and physically burnt out as a superhero. Reporter and romantic interest Jay Nakamura will be there to care for the weary superhero.
Related article: Marvel Introduces First Gay Captain America—How Christian Parents Need to Respond
One of the issue’s writers said in a statement, “Superman’s symbol has always stood for hope, for truth and for justice. Today, that symbol represents something more. Today, more people can see themselves in the most powerful superhero in comics.”
DC Chief Creative Officer and Publisher Jim Lee said, “We couldn’t be prouder to tell this important story. We talk a lot about the power of the DC Multiverse in our storytelling, and this is another incredible example. We can have Jon Kent exploring his identity in the comics, as well as Jon Kent learning the secrets of his family on TV on Superman & Lois. They coexist in their own worlds and times, and our fans get to enjoy both simultaneously.”
Jon Kent was introduced in July 2015 in the Convergence: Superman #2.
Earlier this year, Marvel Comics introduced its first gay Captain America. That version of the character was the first LGBTQ hero to appear in the Marvel franchise’s 80-year history.
Former Superman Dean Cain Reacts
Hollywood actor and Christian Dean Cain played Superman in the hit television series Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman. A day after DC Comics’ announcement, Cain appeared on “Fox & Friends,” where he described the decision to portray Superman as bisexual as “bandwagoning.”
