The long-awaited Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness faced a major backlash when a 12-second ‘two moms’ gay reference scene featuring Xochitl Gomez’s America Chavez was requested to be removed from the upcoming film. Impressively, both Disney and Marvel stand firm with their decision to include the scene and push for representation and diversity.
In an interview with USA Today, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness star Xochitl Gomez finally responds to the LGBTQ backlash over her character.
“I’m all about positivity and creativity (but) sometimes I can't ignore that completely,” Gomez said. “I’m grateful to have very supportive fans that are so much louder and more enthusiastic than haters. And it's really important, since I do have a really big young following to show them that things happen and it's better to stay strong and continue and move forward.” Gomez added, "I love that she is a leader and a problem solver, and she just happens to be lesbian.”
When asked about what's next for America Chavez in the MCU, Gomez reveals that she wants to crossover with Haile Steinfield's Kate Bishop. The actress also expressed excitement with Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan of Ms. Marvel and Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams of Ironheart. Gomez explained, “People underestimate what teens go through and how much they have to grow up so fast. That was also why it was so important to show that youthfulness of America. I didn't want her to be very serious. Remember, she is a kid.”
Besides her awesome ability to travel across different universes, Chavez is also a loud and proud gay character in Marvel comics. Marvel Studios might not present an accurate live-action version of Chavez, however, what’s certain is that the MCU won’t cut the character’s sexuality from the live version.
Gomez’s enthusiasm must be extremely admirable by the fans, most especially by the young viewers. Disney and Marvel’s leap to push a more colorful representation of the modern world of superheroes just gives fans another reason to love the MCU.
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is now showing in theaters worldwide.
Also Read: Elizabeth Olsen Addresses Wanda’s Return on Katherine Hahn's WandaVision Spinoff
Explore new topics and discover content that's right for you!