TV is getting a black gay superhero
” alt=”” />A gay, African-American superhero is set to debut on the TV show ‘Arrow’.
The popular show – which has already featured the openly bisexual Canary, Sara Lance (Caity Lotz) – teased the introduction of another out superhero in its fourth season.
DC’s Geoff Johns told DC that in the upcoming year, the show will feature Mr Terrific – a superhero traditionally depicted as having a photographic memory and the ability to learn new skills incredibly quickly.
Johns told Digital Spy he will become part of the Green Arrow team, saying: “He’s going to work with Felicity, be a good friends of hers.
“We’re often asked when we’re going to add another LGBT character to the show and our version of Mr Terrific happens to be gay for anyone that cares about that kind of stuff.”
Ben & Kate star Echo Kellum has been cast in the role, playing the genius and Justice League member.
The show’s spin-off The Flash features a number of openly LGB characters – including gay supervillain Pied Piper, played by out actor Andy Mientus.
Doctor Who star John Barrowman also appears on Arrow, as the antagonistic reformed villain Malcolm Merlyn.
Barrowman has been outspoken about the need for there to be a gay superhero.
When asked previously whether audiences would be ready for a gay hero, Barrowman said: “Personally, I don’t care if they are, or not. It’s time we had one.”
Arrow star Paul Blackthorne – who plays Canary’s father on the show – said: “It’s nice that they put that stuff in the show and if that’s helping to sort of ground break in any way then that’s great.
“God bless the bisexuals of this world, I say, and everyone in between and beyond.”
