Earlier this week, it was revealed that the DC Universe's new Superman, Jon Kent, is bisexual. The 17-year-old superhero is getting a boyfriend in reporter Jay Nakamura, and fans already disappointed that Clark Kent isn't the current Man of Steel aren't exactly on board with this development.
Many believe it's a bold step forward for DC Comics in terms of diversity, while others feel it's little more than a publicity stunt meant to generate headlines for a publisher that's been struggling with sales for some time (especially so soon after Tim Drake/Robin was also revealed to be bisexual).
Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman and Supergirl actor Dean Cain definitely isn't a fan, and he made his feelings known during an appearance on Fox & Friends (via The Hollywood Reporter).
"They said it’s a bold new direction, I say they’re bandwagoning," the controversial 55-year-old actor said. "Robin just came out as bi - who’s really shocked about that one? My daughter in [The CW series] Supergirl, where I played the father, was gay. So I don’t think it’s bold or brave or some crazy new direction. If they had done this 20 years ago, perhaps that would be bold or brave."
"Brave would be having him fighting for the rights of gay people in Iran where they’ll throw you off a building for the offense of being gay. They’re talking about having him fight climate change and the deportation of refugees, and he’s dating a hacktivist - whatever a hactivist is."
Cain went on to say he believes Superman should "fight the injustices that created the refugees whose deportation he’s protesting," "the new warm and fuzzy Taliban," and "human trafficking."
While there is a live-action Jon Kent in Superman & Lois, there's currently no indication that The CW plans to out that version of the character as bisexual. There's also no word on whether Titans' Tim Drake will be portrayed in this way - a sign, perhaps, that Superman and Robin's sexuality will be explored more on the page than on television or film for the time being.
What do you think about Cain's comments?