Hey there, comic enthusiasts and champions of diverse storytelling! If you’re looking for narratives that celebrate love in all its colors, especially within the vibrant panels of comic books, then you’ve hit the jackpot. We’re diving into the dynamic world of Gay Comic Books, where every page turn is a step into stories that blend the art of visual storytelling with the heartbeats of gay characters.
From superhero sagas to intimate slice-of-life narratives, we’ve curated a collection that showcases the triumphs, challenges, and everyday adventures of LGBTQ+ characters. So, whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the scene, get ready to explore a universe where representation shines bright, and every story is a testament to love, identity, and the power of seeing oneself in the heroic and the ordinary.
10 Gay Comic Books
Gay or MM comics feature gay characters, relationships, and experiences, allowing LGBTQ+ voices to be heard and celebrated. They address issues such as coming out, discrimination, self-acceptance, and pursuing love and happiness.
Also, they span various genres, including superhero stories, romance, fantasy, science fiction, and more. I’m going to share my top favorite gay comic books with you. By engaging with these books, you can see yourself reflected in the stories, fostering a sense of validation, empowerment, and belonging. Let’s begin!
| Name | Pages | Rating (Goodreads) |
|---|---|---|
| Young Avengers | 360 | 4.3/5 |
| The Less Than Epic Adventures of TJ and Amal | 500 | 4.4/5 |
| The Legend of Korra | 76 | 4.3/5 |
| Wandering Son | 210 | 3.9/5 |
| Apollo and Midnighter | Online Version | N/A |
| My Brother’s Husband (All Volume) | 704 | 4.6/5 |
| Check, Please! | 288 | 4.2/5 |
| The Backstagers: Volume One | 76 | 3.9/5 |
| Heartstopper: Volume One | 288 | 4.5/5 |
| Green Lantern: Volume One | 137 | 3.9/5 |
1. Young Avengers by Kieron Gillen and Jamie McKelvie
Young Avengers is a thrilling and inclusive superhero comic series that prominently features gay characters. The series follows a diverse team of young heroes, including a gay superhero couple.
The comic explores their relationship while delivering action-packed adventures and heartfelt moments. I enjoyed the action scenes, but a lack of character relationships sometimes makes the story flat.
2. The Less Than Epic Adventures of TJ and Amal by E.K. Weaver
The Less Than Epic Adventures of TJ and Amal is a tender and realistic road trip comic. The story follows TJ, a recent college graduate, and Amal, a carefree artist. They go on a spontaneous journey across the United States.
The comic beautifully explores their blossoming relationship, capturing the nuances of love, identity, and personal growth. Weaver’s art style and heartfelt storytelling make this gay comic a delightful and emotionally resonant read.
3. The Legend of Korra: Turf Wars by Michael Dante DiMartino and Irene Koh
The Legend of Korra continues the story of the beloved animated series in comic book form. The comic won the Goodreads Choice Award and was nominated for Best Graphic Novel & Comics. It explores the relationship between Korra, a bisexual avatar, and her girlfriend, Asami.
The comic seamlessly integrates LGBTQ+ themes while delivering action, adventure, and exploring a richly imagined world. This is a must-read for fans of the original series and those craving MLM representation in Avatar.
4. Wandering Son by Shimura Takako
Wandering Son is a sensitive and introspective manga series that follows two transgender protagonists. They face adolescence, gender identity, and their evolving relationships.
Takako’s art beautifully captures the emotional journey of these characters, tackling issues of self-discovery, societal expectations, and the complexities of LGBTQ+ experiences. This is a compassionate and thought-provoking gay comic that offers insight and understanding.
5. Apollo and Midnighter by Warren Ellis and Bryan Hitch
Apollo and Midnighter showcase the iconic superhero couple from the Wildstorm universe. This comic explores the relationship between Apollo, a solar-powered hero, and Midnighter, a ruthless fighter with enhanced abilities. The series presents a mix of action, romance, and complex character dynamics, making it a thrilling and compelling read for fans of superhero stories.
6. My Brother’s Husband by Gengoroh Tagame
My Brother’s Husband is a heartfelt manga about a Japanese man and his deceased twin brother’s Canadian husband.
The comic focuses on family, acceptance, and cultural differences. The tender storytelling and sensitive exploration of LGBTQ+ experiences make it a thought-provoking read.
7. Check, Please! by Ngozi Ukazu
Check, Please! is a charming webcomic turned graphic novel. The story follows Eric “Bitty” Bittle, a former figure skater turned college hockey player. He enjoys friendship, love, and the challenges of being a gay athlete.
This feel-good comic combines humor, sports, and heartwarming relationships, making it a delight for readers seeking a wholesome and engaging MM comic.
8. The Backstagers by James Tynion IV and Rian Sygh
The Backstagers is a delightful comic series illustrated by Rian Sygh. It’s set in a magical high school theater. The story follows a group of stage crew members, including Jory and Hunter.
They explore a hidden world behind the scenes. The comic offers adventure, friendship, romance, and inclusive gay comics for all ages.
9. Heartstopper by Alice Oseman
Heartstopper is a heartwarming webcomic turned graphic novel series. It chronicles the evolving relationship between two boys attending the same British all-boys school.
Oseman’s art and storytelling beautifully capture the ups and downs of teenage romance, friendship, and self-discovery. So this is a tender and relatable MM comic that tackles love, identity, and acceptance.
10. Green Lantern: Earth One by Gabriel Hardman and Corinna Bechko
Green Lantern reimagines the classic Green Lantern character in a fresh and modern way. This graphic novel features a revised origin story for Hal Jordan, the titular Green Lantern.
It explores Hal’s relationships, including a romantic connection with fellow pilot and Green Lantern, Kilowog. It combines science fiction, adventure, and LGBTQ+ representation.
5 Gay Marvel Comics
Marvel Comics has increasingly incorporated LGBTQ+ characters and storylines into its vast universe, offering representation and exploring diverse narratives. Here are five notable comics featuring gay characters or storylines showcasing Marvel’s commitment to inclusivity:
- “Young Avengers”
Featuring multiple LGBTQ+ characters, including Wiccan (Billy Kaplan) and Hulkling (Teddy Altman), a gay couple whose relationship is central to the series. The “Young Avengers” series, particularly under the direction of Kieron Gillen and Jamie McKelvie, has been praised for portraying young LGBTQ+ superheroes facing their identities and relationships alongside their superhero duties.
- “Astonishing X-Men”
The wedding of Northstar (Jean-Paul Beaubier) to his partner, Kyle Jinadu, in “Astonishing X-Men” #51 (2012). This event marked one of the first same-sex marriages in mainstream comic books and was a significant moment for LGBTQ+ representation in comics. Northstar has been openly gay since 1992, making him one of the first openly gay superheroes in American comic books.
- “Iceman”
Focusing on Bobby Drake, a founding member of the X-Men, who comes out as gay. The “Iceman” solo series, particularly the 2017 run by Sina Grace, explores Bobby’s journey of self-acceptance, his experiences as a gay man, and his relationships. The series has been celebrated for its heartfelt and authentic portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes.
- “The Runaways”
Featuring Karolina Dean, a lesbian character, and her relationships, particularly with Xavin, a genderfluid Skrull, and later with Julie Power. “The Runaways” series has been acknowledged for its diverse cast and the exploration of LGBTQ+ identities among teenagers, offering compelling narratives that resonate with young readers.
- “Guardians of the Galaxy”
Including LGBTQ+ characters and relationships in its ensemble cast. Notably, the series has explored the bisexuality of Valkyrie and the non-binary identity of the character Xavin in various storylines. The recent iterations of “Guardians of the Galaxy” under the writing of Al Ewing have introduced more inclusive narratives, including a polyamorous relationship involving Hercules.
Last Words
We hope this journey has opened up new worlds for you, filled with characters and stories that resonate, inspire, and entertain. Each comic book we’ve shared today is a window into lives rich with emotion, action, and the pursuit of happiness, reminding us that the spectrum of love and identity deserves to be celebrated in all forms of storytelling.
As you close one comic and eagerly anticipate the next, remember that the world of LGBTQ+ comics is ever-expanding, with countless stories waiting to be discovered and cherished. So, keep turning those pages, supporting diverse voices, and celebrating the stories that bring us closer to understanding each other. Until our next comic book rendezvous, happy reading, and may your shelves always overflow with tales of courage, love, and adventure!
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