Marvel Fans Have Mixed Feelings About the New Captain America Being Gay

Marvel has been pushing forward with its goal of diversifying some of its iconic comic book characters which is an admirable thing to do, to be honest. Now, in a new development, the comic book and pop culture juggernaut is set to introduce a new Captain America who will be representing the LGBTQ+ community.

Cap's new run titled The United States of Captain America will commemorate 80 years of our star-spangled superhero and it will kick off with a brand new story revolving around Steve Rogers journeying across America to find his stolen shield with the help of former Caps like Bucky Barnes, Sam Wilson, and Jon Walker.

Interestingly, this new run will introduce fans to a queer Captain America named Aaron Fischer who has apparently taken up the Cap mantle to become a hero to his own community. Writer Joshua Trujillo explains (via ComicBookMovie): "Aaron is inspired by heroes of the queer community: activists, leaders, and everyday folks pushing for a better life, He stands for the oppressed, and the forgotten. I hope his debut story resonates with readers and helps inspire the next generation of heroes."

The character was actually designed by Jan Bazaldua by who also happens to be an ally of the LGBTQ+ community. Being a transwoman herself, she explains the joy of having to design Aaron's look: "I really enjoyed designing him, and as a transgender person, I am happy to be able to present an openly gay person who admires Captain America and fights against evil to help those who are almost invisible to society. While I was drawing him, I thought, well, Cap fights against super-powerful beings and saves the world almost always, but Aaron helps those who walk alone in the street with problems that they face every day. I hope people like the end result!"

After learning about this new character, Marvel fans aired their sentiments on social media and while others are supportive of the idea, there are some who can't help but raise their eyebrows and question the decision to turn one of the most iconic superheroes of all time into a queer person. Check out the reactions here:

I personally believe that it's time we embrace these kinds of concepts in the world of comic books because quite frankly, we need fresh new stories. And while I understand that the "purist" fans aren't too thrilled about this news, it doesn't mean that the original iteration of the character will be sidelined for an "agenda". If anything, I'm definitely excited to see how Steve Rogers plays as a mentor to young Aaron Fischer. I bet their dynamic will be awesome.

The United States of Captain America will hit stores on June 2nd

Also Read: Sebastian Stan Opens Up About Not Becoming Captain America