The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been making strides in diversity and representation. One place it has previously fallen behind is in LGTBQ+ representation. It wasn’t until 2021 that an MCU film featured an openly gay superhero, Phastos (Brian Tyree Henry). While the MCU had previously been notoriously subtle when it came to its LGBTQ+ characters, Eternals introduced Phastos’ husband, Ben (Haaz Sleiman), and son, Jack (Esai Daniel Cross). Though brief, it was a big step in the right direction for the MCU.

The MCU has also featured several others LGBTQ+ characters. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Jessica Jones, which are technically considered part of the MCU, actually led the way in representation. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. introduced the MCU’s first openly gay character, while Jessica Jones featured the MCU’s first openly lesbian character. Meanwhile, more recent MCU TV shows and films have also introduced several more LGBTQ+ characters. The Deadpool film series also featured LGBTQ+ characters, but Deadpool and Deadpool 2, unfortunately, aren’t considered part of the MCU.