Marvel Producer on LGBTQ Representation On-Screen: 'Stay Tuned'

CBR

By Nicole Sobon

Published Jul 31, 2018

Marvel Studios producer Stephen Broussard says the studio is working behind the scenes to ensure more LGBTQ representation moving forward.

When it comes to representation in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, fans have become increasingly vocal about the need for more diversity on the big screen. While Black Panther was a step in the right direction, there's no denying Marvel Studios has quite a ways to go, especially when it comes to LGBTQ representation in its film.

In recent interviews, this has been something Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige has touched on, promising that fans will get at least two LGBTQ characters on the big screen. While Feige's comments prove the studio has been listening, it's clear fans have grown rather frustrated with its "wait and see" approach. Now, in a new interview with Den of Geek, Ant-Man and the Wasp producer Stephen Broussard has touched on that very matter, and has since confirmed things are, in fact, happening behind the scenes.

When asked if Marvel Studios has plans to properly introduce LGBTQ within the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the near future, Broussard not only reaffirmed Feige's comments but also stressed that he understands the fan frustration. Additionally, he promised plenty more representation still to come in various other forms, as well.

"For sure, you will see that," he said. "I know it can be frustrating if you’re part of a group that wants to see more representation and the answer is always ‘stay tuned’ - I can imagine that that’s frustrating - but that is happening behind the scenes, you’re going to be seeing that more and more. Representation across individual groups in the years ahead."

Interestingly enough, while the film side of Marvel has struggled to provide LGBTQ representation, Marvel Television has fared a bit better. Not only does Runaways feature a lesbian superhero, but New Warriors is also set to feature a gay woman of color in its core cast of heroes. And while not always the best bit of representation, Jessica Jones has featured an open LGBTQ character with Jeri Hogarth, while Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. briefly included a gay male hero with the Inhuman Joey.

Next up for Marvel Studios is Captain Marvel, another film which is set to mark a major milestone for the studio as its the first MCU film to be headed by a female hero. That film stars Brie Larson in the titular role and is set to hit theaters on March 8.