Homosexuality in Comics

CBR ran a very interesting set of articles last month, focusing on the portrayal of LGBT characters in comics.

The panel included nine famous creators who are either gay themselves or have been linked to some important LGBT landmarks in comics:

Marc Andreyko (MANHUNTER)
Lillian Diaz-Przbyl (TokyoPop's Yaoi editor)
Devin Grayson (USER for Vertigo)
Terrance Griep (PRISM Comics)
Mark Millar (THE AUTHORITY: the wedding of Midnighter and Apollo)
Allan Heinberg (YOUNG AVENGERS)
Scott Lobdell (ALPHA FLIGHT: Northstar's coming out)
Alan Moore (you know him...)
and Greg Rucka (GOTHAM CENTRAL, 52: Renee Montoya and Batwoman)

Parts I and II introduce the panel in more detail and talk to them individually about their experiences and history in comics and LGBT issues.

Following that Parts III and IV get into the nitty-gritty with as close examination of the major 'gay issues' in comics and the panelists' thoughts on them. Part III talks about the Comics Code, comics viewed as a kids' medium, choice versus genes, and how much LGBT characters tend to be completely defined by their sexuality. Part IV features the panelists' favourite LGBT protrayals in comics, adresses the 'gay retcon' and wraps up with a general address at LGBT elements in comics today.