While the debate rages on regarding the need for an accurate representation of LGBTQ+ characters in children’s shows, the gender of these popular cartoon characters no longer remain behind-the-scenes.
Sailor Uranus and Sailor Neptune, from Sailor Moon (1992-1997)
Sailor Uranus and Neptune from Sailor Moon are definitely notable, not only for the show’s portrayal of their relationship, but also because of how the other characters showed their acceptance of it as well. Some dubs however, such as the English dub, instead rewrote them as cousins, in order to avoid directly alluding to LGBTQ+ content, as these themes were still very controversial at the time it was aired.
Marceline and Princess Bubblegum, from Adventure Time (2010-2018)
Although never explicitly stated, there were a few episodes that implied that two of the main protagonists from Cartoon Network’s Adventure Time, Marceline and Princess Bubblegum, had been romantically involved in the past. The show’s creator, Pendleton Ward, revealed that the two had dated prior to the timeline of the series. Though many fans welcomed the revelation, their relationship has never been officially portrayed on the show itself.
Stevonnie, from Steven Universe (2013-)
Steven Universe is known for its exploration of LGBTQ+ themes. The show visited these through the character of Stevonnie, who is formed by the “fusion” of the protagonist Steven and his best friend Connie into one person with both their traits. Stevonnie is a rare example of a non-binary character in children’s shows. But they have not faced much controversy, unlike Garnet and Pearl, whose involvement in gay relationships has been censored through scene cuts and dialogue changes.
Kevin Keller, from Archie Comics (1939-)
In 2011, Archie Comics became the last comic book publisher to abandon the Comics Code Authority (CCA), which had rules on “illicit sex relations” and was used to justify LGBTQ censorship in comic books. Previously in 2010, Kevin Keller was introduced as Archie Comics’ first gay character—to great reception from fans and the media. John Goldwater, one of the comic’s CEOs, said in a press release that Keller’s introduction was for Archie Comics to be current and inclusive. “Riverdale has always been a safe world for everyone. It just makes sense to have an openly gay character in Archie comic books,” said Goldwater.
