Exploring LGBTQ+ Representation in 10 Remarkable Cartoons

Summary

LGBTQ+ representation in animated shows is vital for LGBTQ+ viewers to see themselves and navigate their own experiences and identities.

Shows like

She-Ra and the Princesses of Power, Steven Universe

, and

The Dragon Prince

showcase diverse families, gender identities, and sexualities, normalizing LGBTQ+ characters.

Cartoons like

Harley Quinn, Big Mouth

, and

The Owl House

challenge stereotypes and depict healthy and normalized LGBTQ+ relationships, while also exploring sensitive issues with sensitivity and humor.

Cartoon creators have successfully integrated LGBTQ+ representation into many examples. Over time, LGBTQ+ representation has become a common feature in various forms of entertainment. Animated shows, in particular, offer numerous outstanding instances.

The significance of LGBTQ+ representation on television cannot be overstated. It allows LGBTQ+ viewers to connect with characters and navigate their own journeys of self-identity and experiences. Animated shows serve as a platform for showcasing diverse family structures, various gender identities, and a wide range of sexual orientations. Perhaps most importantly, they help to normalize these aspects of human diversity.

10. She-Ra And The Princesses Of Power

9. Steven Universe

Netflix's She-Ra and the Princess of Power is a modern version of the 1985 animated series titled She-Ra: Princess of Power. It has gained praise for its inclusive portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters. Interestingly, there are no explicitly heteronormative characters in the show. Many characters are coded as gender-fluid and/or pansexual. The relationship between Adora and Catra is particularly significant, as they openly express their love for each other and share a kiss in the finale of season 1. This particular moment is considered a major milestone in representing LGBTQ+ individuals in children's media.

Steven Universe paved the way for future LGBTQ+ cartoons, showcasing prominent LGBTQ+ themes and challenging traditional gender roles. The show features numerous queer relationships and explores the concept of gender identity through its diverse cast of genderqueer characters. This commendable exploration of identity encourages children to better understand themselves. Despite certain LGBTQ+ themes being censored, creator Rebecca Sugar made it a point to include a multitude of essential queer couples and narratives in Steven Universe​​​​​.

8. The Dragon Prince

Netflix's animated fantasy series The Dragon Prince takes great care to portray a diverse range of characters. While the LGBTQ+ characters in the series do not have their identities at the forefront of their storylines, they have their own important subplots. The Dragon Prince features several LGBTQ+ characters, including gay, lesbian, and non-binary individuals. Although they may not be the main characters, they are still prominently showcased and play a vital role in the overall narrative.

7. Adventure Time

Throughout Adventure Time, LGBTQ+ themes are subtly intertwined. While direct representation may be lacking for most of the series, there are hints of a romantic connection between Princess Bubblegum and Marceline. This storyline reaches its pinnacle in the final episode, where the two characters are overtly portrayed as a couple and share a meaningful kiss. Although Adventure Time may not be the epitome of inclusivity in terms of representation, it does offer abundant queer subtext. The revelation of Princess Bubblegum and Marceline as a lesbian couple was highly anticipated by viewers who had been eagerly waiting for their relationship to be acknowledged officially.

6. Harley Quinn

5. Big Mouth

Harley Quinn garnered immense acclaim for finally bringing to fruition the long-awaited romantic bond between the eponymous antihero and Poison Ivy. Both characters are depicted as bisexual, effectively challenging societal preconceptions regarding unfaithfulness and promiscuity. Remarkably, the relationship between Harley Quinn and Ivy in the animated series stands out as one of the healthiest portrayals. Season 3 of the show received widespread appreciation for its tender and heartfelt depiction of their connection, which served as the emotional core. Notably, Harley Quinn strongly champions LGBTQ+ inclusion, unveiling numerous queer characters and even commencing the season three trailer with the inclusive phrase, "Ladies and gentlemen, theys and gays."

Netflix's Big Mouth delves into the complex world of puberty and sexuality, promoting body positivity and sexual liberation. Despite a primarily heterosexual focus, LGBTQ+ representation is integrated naturally. Numerous characters explore their sexual identities, including openly gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals. Notably, the series presents a school queer choir, led by the esteemed queer icon Billy Porter. In season 1, episode 3, "Am I Gay?," Big Mouth bravely tackles LGBTQ+ narratives, handling the delicate subject matter with both sensitivity and humor.

4. The Owl House

Disney has had a disappointing history when it comes to LGBTQ+ representation in their animated movies and shows. However, 2020's The Owl House breaks this pattern with its inclusion of a same-sex couple who are integral to the story, as well as non-binary characters. The Owl House spans three seasons, during which it delves into multiple LGBTQ+ relationships and characters. Notably, the series received a GLAAD Award nomination in 2022 and won a Peabody Award for its admirable LGBTQ+ representation. While there may be other animated shows that are arguably more deserving of these honors, they certainly signify progress towards greater LGBTQ+ inclusion.

3. Bob’s Burgers

Bob's Burgers, the popular animated sitcom, features a range of LGBTQ+ characters. While there is speculation surrounding the potential bisexuality of some characters, it is the inclusion of trans characters that stands out. Marshmallow, a black transgender woman in the show, represents an often overlooked identity in mainstream media. LGBTQ+ audiences admire both Bob's Burgers and the character of Marshmallow for promoting a message of complete acceptance, where identities are fully embraced without question.

2. BoJack Horseman

1. Queer Duck

Throughout the series BoJack Horseman, a diverse array of characters can be found, many of whom identify as LGBTQ+. However, what truly stands out is the show's portrayal of an asexual character. Asexuality, often overlooked in mainstream media, becomes a significant focus in several episodes as Todd embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Ultimately, he comes to embrace his identity as asexual. BoJack Horseman goes above and beyond in normalizing and sensitively exploring asexuality, seamlessly integrating it into Todd's character development and receiving support from both the show and other characters.

Queer Duck, an adult animated series, revolves around the central theme of queerness. The show, created and written by Mike Reiss (known for his work on The Simpsons and The Critic), primarily focuses on Queer Duck himself, alongside his anthropomorphized companions: Openly Gator, Bi-Polar Bear, and Oscar Wildcat. The iconic drag performer RuPaul, famous for RuPaul's Drag Race, even lends his voice to the theme song. Queer Duck serves as a joyous celebration of gay culture and the broader LGBTQ+ community, all neatly packaged within a delightful and entertaining cartoon. Although the series only spans a single season, it is absolutely worth watching.