In the past few years, there's been an increased conversation about representation and onscreen diversity in the media. After scandals like #OscarsSoWhite and #TimesUp, the call for more inclusive characters in blockbusters has grown. This extends to franchises like Star Wars and the Marvel Cinematic Universe (both of which are owned by Disney). Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige recently spoke about about the call for LGBT inclusion in the MCU, and revealed that there are concrete plans to have visible queer characters in the behemoth shared universe. Feige was recently asked about Marvel's plans, where he revealed that there's going to be at least two queer characters in the future.
This potentially game changing announcement comes from Kevin Feige's recent conversation with The Playlist. When asked if there were concrete plans for LGBT characters, Feige confirmed that there's at least one MCU character we've already met, as well as a newcomer who has yet to make their debut in the shared universe. And just like that, there are confirmed to be at least two non-heterosexual characters in one of the biggest franchises in film history.
Kevin Feige's comments are sure to be exciting for advocates who were hoping for a more inclusive MCU. Additionally, it's also likely going to be the start of countless fan theories. The revelation that one of the upcoming LGBT characters has already been in a Marvel blockbuster means we've missed something, and folks are going to be combing through the past 19 releases until an official confirmation happens.
One of the most likely choices would be Tessa Thompson's Valkyrie, who made her MCU debut in Thor: Ragnarok. While Valkyrie's sexuality wasn't explored in the threequel, Thompson claimed she was playing a queer character throughout various interviews and press junkets. Kevin Feige hasn't exactly confirmed that Valkyrie was the character he was referencing, but it would make sense. Now we just need her return after being noticeably absent in Avengers: Infinity War.
As far as which new LGBT character may be joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it's anyone's guess. The future of the MCU after Avengers 4 is largely a mystery, as its unclear if we'll be getting another pre-planned phase of movies. It's also unknown how the characters who perished in Infinity War would function in the greater MCU, especially with heroes like Spider-Man and the Guardians of the Galaxy expected to receive new sequels. We'll just have to wait and see who ends up really dying in the next Avengers movie, and which heroes get to continue their tenure in the MCU.
The next installment in the MCU is Ant-Man and The Wasp on July 6, 2018. In the meantime, check out our 2018 release list to plan your next trip to the movies.
