The bisexual status of DC Comics' new Superman has inspired a huge response at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras celebration.This past October, Superman Jon Kent came out as bisexual in the fifth issue of writer Tom Taylor's Superman: Son of Kal-El series. Now, posted on Twitter are sights of many people wearing Superman and Supergirl outfits for the Mardi Gras celebration, with the shield of hope that actor Henry Cavill wore across films like Man of Steel and Justice League appearing to be a predominant choice of attire. Taylor also posted photos on Twitter, spotlighting that some of the participants held up fictional copies of DC Comics' Daily Planet newspaper, breaking the news that Jon Kent had come out as bisexual.
The sight highlights the impact and popularity of the character decision for Jon Kent. Jon's coming out issue not only received a second printing due to increased sales, but the first four issues of Son of Kal-El also received additional printings bearing DC's LGBTQ+ Pride logo in the top left corner. Of course, not everyone was on board with the change to the character.
When the news broke that Jon would be coming out as bisexual, many chimed in online with their thoughts. Arizona State Senator Wendy Rogers posted on Twitter to call out against the decision, insisting that "Superman loves Louis Lane," confusing Jon for his father, Clark Kent, and misspelling "Lois" Lane. Lois & Clark's Dean Cain also commented on Jon Kent's sexuality, labeling it as "bandwagoning" being that previous characters in comics -- such as Robin Tim Drake -- and live-action had come out as members of the LGBTQ+ community.
In January 2022, Taylor responded to a tweet claiming that Son of Kal-El was performing poorly because of Jon Kent's sexuality. The writer went on to cite how Son of Kal-El #5 and other issues had topped charts for comic sales and bestseller lists, and poked fun at the arguments claiming the title was a flop.
Currently, there is no end in sight for Son of Kal-El, and Jon Kent may be thrust further into the public spotlight come April. Justice League #75, titled "Death of the Justice League" is poised to kill off nine major heroes, with Superman Clark Kent being a possibility. Artwork for the upcoming Dark Crisis event indicates that Jon may have to fill the void left by his father's absence, should he be among the dead.
The next issue of Son of Kal-El is Issue #9, the second part of Jon's crossover with Nightwing/Dick Grayson. The issue is written by Taylor with interior and main cover art by Bruno Redondo, inks by Wade Von Grawbadger, colors by Adriano Lucas and letters by Wes Abbott. Variant covers were contributed to by Travis Moore, Tamra Bonvillain and Janaina Medieros. The issue goes on sale Tuesday, March 8 from DC Comics.
Source: Twitter