It’s not hard to notice the lack of representation of the LGBTQ+ community within the MCU. Fans have waited long enough for more inclusivity among their favorite heroes and villains, and the wait might be coming to an end sooner rather than later. In an interview with Variety, Marvel’s executive vice president of film production, Victoria Alonso, opened up the conversation of inclusivity, stating confidently that there will be more LGBTQ+ representation present in the Marvel universe. This announcement may stem from Marvel seeing fans' reaction when it was confirmed that Loki is bisexual.
Fans were ecstatic to say the least to finally see the MCU addressing Loki’s sexuality as the series unfolds. This is one of the first times that fans may have ever seen LGBTQ+ representation in the MCU and it instilled in fans lots of hope when it comes to the future. With Loki opening the door for queer identities to shine on screen, fans are sensing that this is the introduction to LGBTQ+ representation no longer being a rarity. Alonso was questioned as to whether or not Loki was the smoke signal, alerting fans that more queer representation is coming fast. However, it took decades for the MCU to finally showcase LGBTQ+ representation.
Unfortunately, Alonso revealed that it’s going to take even more time before it becomes a grounded reality of the MCU, saying, “It takes time, we have so many stories to tell. We will empower those that are. We’re not changing anything.” This allotment of more time in order to bring forth more LGBTQ+ representation may in fact be for the better.
Alonso seems dedicated to making sure the LGBTQ+ representation in the MCU is done with care and intention - rather than representing the community poorly. She mentions that Loki’s reveal of his sexuality was not really a “big deal” but more of a natural progression that made sense to his character, specifically. In other words, Marvel will make a more conscious effort to include LGBTQ+ representation, but it will not be a random, obligatory act for them. Alonso stated, “It is what it is when it suits the character. We’re not going to do it because it's politically correct or incorrect.”
Meaningful representation is crucial. However, if Alonso is claiming that it's more about the character’s makeup than anything, why has it taken so long to see an LGBTQ+ character in the MCU? Surely, Loki can’t be the only one in the MCU who is a part of the LGBTQ+ community. Representation that is only an obligation will not be done to the same stature if it was made with intention. Loki seems to be a step in the right direction towards LGBTQ+ representation being a constant in the MCU.
SOURCE: Variety