Sci-fi and fantasy stories are known for their abilities to suck viewers into worlds, both similar to and very different from the real world. This escapism is fun, yet it is not the only aspect of these stories that are appealing. After all, if a sci-fi or fantasy world is unlike our own, then that means that issues dealt with in reality are not a problem there, such as hatred or prejudice against certain groups of people.
This would include, of course, the LGBTQ+ community. Sci-fi and fantasy stories would also not be nearly as appealing if there wasn't some realism. That would involve representing the world in all its diversity. Though LGBTQ+ couples are still rare in sci-fi and fantasy, it's important to celebrate those that do exist.
Whether it's Sara Lance and Ava Sharpe from Legends of Tomorrow or Alec Lightwood and Magnus Bane from Shadowhunters, these LGBTQ+ couples hint at a brighter future for the genres. Sci-fi and fantasy stories are all about possibilities. And featuring prominent LGBTQ+ couples definitely shows that there are infinite possible futures. That a reality where all LGBTQ+ people and couples are genuinely respected and valued exists. And that's inspiring. As with all good representation, these LGBTQ+ couples in sci-fi and fantasy increase empathy for real LGBTQ+ people and couples. That's crucial for progress to happen. LGBTQ+ couples in sci-fi and fantasy also make real LGBTQ+ people feel less alone. And that's definitely a good thing. So let's celebrate these well-written LGBTQ+ couples! Sci-fi and fantasy wouldn't be the same without them.
Sara Lance and Ava Sharpe (Legends of Tomorrow)
This couple started off as enemies or at least rivals. "AvaLance," as they're known to fans, got off to a rough start after meeting in the first episode of season 3. Ava thinks of Sara and the rest of the Legends as nothing but a problem to be dealt with. After all, the Legends are known for messing with time. And that causes problems for the Time Bureau that Ava works for. However, as time goes on, the two women grow to respect each other. That respect turns to love, and they go on their first date in Season 3, Episode 12. Both women have to deal with their pasts in order to make the relationship work. And the two complement each other perfectly.
Ava helps Sara settle down, while Sara helps Ava let loose. The couple seems to be perfect for each other. And now they're even engaged. Though there are bound to be bumps in the road, after all, Legends of Tomorrow is a sci-fi show, Ava and Sara seem to be capable of handling them.
Waverly Earp and Nicole Haught (Wynonna Earp)
This couple, known as "Wayhaught" to fans, started off at the very beginning of the show. Though the two women didn't get together right away, their relationship was a part of the show and only grew throughout the show's run. Though Wynonna Earp might be over for good, it will live on forever in the hearts of its fans. And part of the reason for that is Waverly and Nicole.
In the beginning, Waverly actually has a boyfriend named Champ. Though the two eventually break up, and Waverly ends up dating Nicole. This relationship fits both characters, and in fact, the two get a very happy ending in Season 4 of the show. So their fans will be somewhat satisfied if the show does end there.
Raelle Collar and Scylla Ramshorn (Motherland: Fort Salem)
Known as "Raylla" to fans, their first kiss occurs in Season 1 Episode 1 of Motherland: Fort Salem. Scylla kisses Raelle after trying to convince her not to perish on the front lines of the battle. The two of them go through some struggles, but overall remain a solid couple to root for throughout season 1 of the show.
This couple is so great because their struggles come not from any prejudice they face but from other sources of angst. It's nice to see an LGBTQ+ couple get the kind of storyline in sci-fi and fantasy that is usually reserved for straight couples.
Cosima Niehaus and Delphine Cormier (Orphan Black)
get together early on, much like Waverly and Nicole or Raelle and Scylla. However, "Cophine," as they're known to fans, are not without their struggles. Therefore, they are more like Raelle and Scylla. However, these struggles come not from facing prejudice but from the fact that Cosima is a clone and Delphine is observing her. Delphine's goal does change as she falls in love with Cosima. Yet there are several bumps in the road for the two women.
Cosima even dates others when they're not together. Delphine also gets shot at one point and is left alone, but she survives. This couple is so great because they work together to confront them no matter what struggles they face. They also end up happy in the end, which is nice.
Magnus Bane and Alec Lightwood (Shadowhunters)
"Malec," as they're known to fans is quite the pair. Alec is a Shadowhunter, which means he hunts demons and any supernatural beings that get out of line. Magnus is a warlock, a rather free-spirited one. Their relationship starts as mostly interest on Magnus' side, but Alec eventually reciprocates. Their first kiss happens when Alec is meant to marry a Shadowhunter woman but Magnus interrupts the wedding. And Alec then kisses him in front of everyone.
The two have their own wedding in the series finale of Shadowhunters. And it's always nice to see a happy ending, especially for an LGBTQ+ couple. This couple is so great because they're always there for each other and inspire each other from the start. Of course, there are probably well-written LGBTQ+ couples in sci-fi and fantasy that aren't mentioned here. And people might not agree with all of those that are mentioned. Still, these LGBTQ+ couples in sci-fi and fantasy are definitely worth celebrating.