“For me [playing the first openly gay superhero], it is super important, I mean Power Rangers has always been about equality, diversity, and unity,” said Becky G to Hollywoodlife.com. “And how can we make a movie about the people without acknowledging people being people and especially a coming of age story. I feel that the story is the same story a lot of people who are going to be watching this movie are going through, whether it is from the OG fans or the newer generation that will be introduced. So to me, I am very proud!”
Why has it taken this long to introduce openly gay characters?
For most of these studios, it’s a huge risk to introduce gay characters because of the conservative views that people have. Yet, being part of the LGBTQ community is more accepting than it was 20 years ago. Movies like these are getting more support from not only the LGBTQ community but from the masses because it’s no big deal to be gay.
A person’s sexuality is their personal choice and in these two movies, it was represented in a matter-of-fact way, “yes, I’m gay, so what?” That’s the reality of many that don’t want any fanfare when they come out as gay, it’s just who they are and if you like it, fine, if not, no big deal.
These movies are certainly setting the bar for others to follow. Star Wars Director, J.J. Abrams even says that LGBTQ characters are a must, and Twitter followers started at #GiveCaptainAmericaABoyfriend campaign, so it’s definitely something that people want to see more of…and why not?