The new issue of Superman: Son of Kal-El featured a heartwarming coming-out scene between Jon Kent and his superhero father.
Back in 2021, DC Comics made headlines after Jon – the son of Clark Kent and Lois Lane – came out as bisexual in the groundbreaking series.
Written by Tom Taylor, the LGBTQ+ inclusive story follows Jon as he takes over the famous mantel while his father is on a mission in space.
“Superman’s symbol has always stood for hope, for truth and for justice. Today, that symbol represents something more. Today, more people can see themselves in the most powerful superhero in comics,” said writer Tom Taylor in a press release.
Over the last 16 issues, Jon has steadily found his groove as the new Man of Steel while also starting a relationship with journalist and activist Jay Nakamura.
But even though he’s gained confidence in his multitude of identities, the young Kryptonian kept his bisexuality a secret from his father, until now.
In the 17th issue of Son of Kal-El, Clark – who recently returned from his year-long mission on Warworld – is getting reacquainted to life on earth with his wife and son.
While Jon is excited to have his father back, the young hero hesitates to open up about his life due to his father’s long absence.
After Jon refrains from coming out to Clark on planet Vega 3, the young hero heads back to earth to investigate a mysterious fire in Metropolis.
This week’s issue of Superman Son of Kal El meant everything to me. As the bisexual kid who tried to come out to her parents and didn’t get the warmest reception…to see THE HERO of comics give his son that love I needed, healed my queer little heart. Thanks @TomTaylorMade 💕 pic.twitter.com/ImkDhstFsv
— Mars!🏳️🌈✨💕 (@ThatComicGirl) November 12, 2022
However, while searching for innocent civilians, he is attacked by an unknown threat, leaving him unconscious.
While recovering from his injuries at the Justice League Infirmary, Jon finally gets the courage to come out to his father after a distressed Jay comes to visit.
“Look about what I didn’t say on Vega 3. I know that you… I mean there are videos of me and Jay everywhere, it’s hardly a secret,” he explains.
“But I was enjoying having you back. I was enjoying the sunshine. I didn’t want to have that conversation.”
Jon then admits that he held back from coming out because he was afraid of disappointing his father.
Fortunately for the LGBTQ+ hero, the original Man of Steel expertly shut down his worries.
“Every day of my life has been better since you’ve been in it. Every single day. Who you love is the last thing that could change that,” Clark says.
“Anyone who makes your life better will always be a hero in my eyes. And no matter what, I will stand beside you. I will defend you. I will love you, and I will always, always be your father.”
Shortly after the issue was released fans flocked to social media to praise the heartfelt moment.
One person wrote: “Omg I had tears. I loved this issue so much.”
Another fan tweeted: This just became my favorite Superman page ever written. As a proud gay Superman fan, I’ve never felt more seen.
Superman: Son of Kal-El issue #17 is now available