While criticisms of Superman's son, Jon Kent, are still forthcoming on social media, the young hero is resonating with the LGBTQ community. Despite beliefs that the character would not see very much success, DC's current Superman is proving he has a major impact on his fans. This impact is truly global, as LGBTQIA+ fans gathered in Australia for an annual event where they put their fandom on display.
Jon Kent came out as bisexual in November 2021, within the pages of Superman: Son of Kal-El #5, though is coming out was announced October 11 - National Coming Out Day. While some DC comic fans were quick to voice displeasure at the event, many others have been showing fervent support. DC has numerous characters who fall within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, but Jon Kent may be one of the most important and could be the most beloved amongst fans should he be a mainstay in future comics.
On Twitter, Tom Taylor - the writer of Superman: Son of Kal-El and numerous other comics - was asked about the series' performance. His response included not just sales rankings from Amazon, but also a show of the LGBT+ community in Australia for the annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. The theme for this year's parade (which was held on March 6) was "United We Shine." One of the participating groups showed up with an entry designed to celebrate Jon's coming out: "Ain't that SUPER".
The group Free Gay and Happy showed up to the parade with an homage to Jon Kent, DC's Superman. Participants wore Superman suits and capes, while carrying printouts of the Daily Planet, featuring the headline "Superman Comes Out". These print-outs featured a cropped version of Superman: Son of Kal-El #5's variant cover, which featured art by Travis Moore. Superman: Son of Kal-El #5 has the creative team of Tom Taylor, John Timms, Hi-Fi, and Dave Sharpe. Free Gay and Happy celebrated the official coming out of Jon Kent as they donned his and his father's iconic costumes, emblazoned with the Kryptonian symbol of hope. The creative decision may have faced some criticism, but it is also coming with a large show of support that proves the character has resonated with the community he is a part of.
Jon Kent has been stepping into his own as a hero and forging his own identity independent of his father. This Superman is a hero for a new generation and his being embraced outside of comic conventions is a sign that he has a positive influence on many readers. Every hero in comics may not impact every comic fan or resonate with them, but each hero certainly has their fit within the comic community and Jon Kent has been embraced by those who most need him. Comics have the power to unite people and spread positive messages, including respect, compassion, and the importance of community. Jon Kent, the new Superman, is certainly doing his part to exemplify those ideals within the LGBTQ community.