6 Most popular LGBTQ+ comic book characters

5. Iceman

A few years ago, Marvel Comics took a huge leap with an unexpected change to Bobby Drake a.k.a. Iceman’s storylines, one of the original members of the X-Men. They revealed the long-time hotheaded hero as a gay character. It was an admirable move that received recognition for the inclusive representation it brought, giving a voice to those who had long felt unseen.

The groundbreaking event happened in All-New X-Men #40 and it was handled with delicacy and thoughtfulness, executed as a masterful plot twist that left readers intrigued and curious.

Detractors argued that the revelation felt somewhat contrived as if attempting to force a square peg into a round hole. However, it’s important not to downplay the significance of this milestone. Marvel embraced diversity and showed support for the LGBTQ+ community. Albeit not for the first time. Iceman’s story expanded the boundaries of what it meant to be a superhero, proving that they could not only save the world but also champion the marginalized.

Why’d they make the change? The answer is pretty simple. Marvel wanted to challenge readers with a thought-provoking experience in the life of a hero who struggled with who he was. It’s something that people face every day, and they depicted that in a relatable way.

In a world where mutants faced discrimination and fear, Iceman’s newfound identity served as a symbolic middle finger to prejudice and narrow-mindedness. Bobby Drake embraced his true self, becoming a symbol of self-acceptance.

This transformative development not only brought a fresh perspective to a familiar character but also opened doors to nuanced storytelling possibilities. Iceman’s personal journey of self-discovery and acceptance added depth to his already multifaceted persona. Which is something fans are used to when it comes to the X-Men.