Queer comic fans who have always dreamed of an LGBTQ+ Superman are about to get their wish. DC Comics has announced that Jon Kent — son of Clark Kent (a.k.a. Kal-El) — who recently took up the mantle of the Man of Steel, is set to come out in Superman: Son of Kal-El #5 on stands November 9.
“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,” shared writer Tom Taylor in a press release. “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.”
In the issue, Jon is grappling with the massive responsibility of becoming Superman at age 17, and it’s his friend, reporter Jay Nakamura, who’s there to support him and care for him. But things take a turn when the two share a kiss.
While there are obvious parallels to his father’s romance with Lois Lane, who was also a journalist, Nakamura is going to play a much more active role in Jon’s story, Taylor told IGN. “He’s obviously an effective journalist, and Lois Lane is his hero. But Jay is also a refugee from Gamorra [an island nation ruled by a dictator], so his experience also reflects Clark’s. While this has fortunately changed over the years, historically, Lois has often fulfilled a damsel role. Jay Nakamura will never be that. He and Jon will tackle many things side-by-side.” He also has his own set of superpowers that will make him an ally as well as a companion in the fights to come.
“Over the years in this industry, it probably won’t surprise you to hear I’ve had queer characters and storylines rejected. I felt like I was letting down people I loved every time this happened” Taylor said. “But we are in a very different and much more welcome place today than we were ten, or even five years ago. When I was asked if I wanted to write a new Superman with a new #1 for the DC Universe, I knew replacing Clark with another straight white savior could be a real opportunity missed. I’ve always said everyone needs heroes and everyone deserves to see themselves in their heroes. Today, Superman, the strongest superhero on the planet, is coming out.”
Taylor and the comic’s artist, John Timms both previously have worked with Harley Quinn, who is one of the most prominent LGBTQ+ heroes in the DC Universe.
Superman: Son of Kal-El #1-3 are available now and issues #4 and #5 will be available October 19 and November 9, respectively.
