Despite rumors to the contrary, sales on Superman: Son of Kal-El are soaring high.On social media, writer Tom Taylor addressed the rumor that Jon Kent's sexuality hurt the series' sales. Taylor posted screenshots of multiple articles and videos claiming that, though Superman: Son of Kal-El #5 experienced a sales spike over the announcement of Jon's sexuality, the series tanked in December and didn't appear on any charts. Taylor waived off these takes by offering a simple explanation -- there was no issue of Superman: Son of Kal-El in December.
Due to delays that have plagued the entire comic book industry, Superman: Son of Kal-El #6, originally scheduled for Dec. 14, was pushed back to Jan. 4, 2022. Furthermore, it is worth noting that Superman: Son of Kal-El Annual #1, which came out on Dec. 7, was delayed from its Nov. 30 release date during its distribution, meaning it doesn't appear on any December charts.
Taylor preivously announced Jon would come out as bisexual and enter a relationship with Jay Nakamura, an aspiring reporter. This direction was well-received by many, leading to increased interest for Superman: Son of Kal-El #5, which featured the young couple's first kiss. The issue received the series' highest orders to date, prompting DC to reprint the title's first four issues with "DC Pride" branding.
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Still, not everybody has been happy with the success of Superman: Son of Kal-El. Arizona Senator Wendy Rogers came out against the decision, saying, "Hollywood is trying to make Superman gay and he is not." Additionally, actor Dean Cain, known for roles on Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman and the CW's Supergirl, condemned the decision and accussed DC of "bandwagoning."
Despite the criticisms of a vocal minority, DC continues to incorporate more LGBTQ+ characters in prominent roles in its line-up of titles. Tim Drake, who came out as bisexual in Batman: Urban Legends last summer, remains a regular feature in that series, where he appears with his new boyfriend. Similarly, Jackson Hyde will be one of the focal points of Aquamen, expanding his presence as the first gay Aquaman.
Moving forward, Superman: Son of Kal-El will address more topical issues by pitting Jon against the threat of climate change. An upcoming issue of the series sees Jon team with Aquaman and a group of young protestors to take a stance against pollution. The cover to Superman: Son of Kal-El #7 also teases that the superheroes' will use peaceful protest to achieve their goals instead of simply punching bad guys.
Superman: Son of Kal-El #6, written by Tom Taylor, drawn by John Timms, colored by Hi-Fi and lettered by Dave Sharpe is now available from DC Comics.
Source: Twitter