As a huge animation fan, I’ve been fascinated to discover how many beloved characters seem to hint at queer identities! It’s amazing how often these clues were right there, hiding in plain sight. Sometimes it’s a reveal later in the series, other times it’s something the creator has said publicly. You can actually find a lot of these details by rewatching episodes, checking out series finales, or looking at official follow-up material. I’ve been keeping track of these moments and also noting where the shows originally aired, because it’s cool to remember which networks helped bring these stories to life.
Velma Dinkley, ‘Scooby-Doo’
The 2022 special ‘Trick or Treat Scooby-Doo!’ explicitly shows Velma developing a crush on costume designer Coco Diablo. While previous series, like ‘Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated,’ hinted at Velma’s relationships and featured complex character dynamics—which fans have since revisited with new perspectives—that show, airing on Cartoon Network, allowed for more detailed character development. Over time, Velma’s portrayal in both movies and TV series has increasingly suggested she is a lesbian.
Marcie, ‘Peanuts’
Many fans have interpreted the close relationship between Marcie and Peppermint Patty in the classic ‘Peanuts’ animated specials as a coded expression of queerness, particularly due to their strong and constant bond. These specials aired on CBS and ABC for many years, making the duo a familiar part of family television. Recent specials continue to feature Marcie prominently and maintain the close dynamic that characterized their original appearances. The fact that they consistently share screen time together is a major reason why this interpretation remains popular.
Mr. Ratburn, ‘Arthur’
In a 2019 episode of ‘Arthur’, the character Mr. Ratburn marries another man, officially establishing his sexual orientation within the show’s storyline. The episode presented the wedding as a typical event, with characters from the school and town attending. Because ‘Arthur’ aired on PBS Kids, this moment reached many children through public television. The show has a history of thoughtfully addressing social issues in a way that’s easy for kids to understand.
Korra, ‘The Legend of Korra’
The last scene of ‘The Legend of Korra’ hinted at a romantic connection between Korra and Asami, which was later confirmed in official comics. This development was supported by earlier episodes that showed their deepening trust and strong bond. The series, which aired on Nickelodeon, balanced exciting action with heartfelt character development, and the comics provided further clarity to the ending.
Marceline the Vampire Queen, ‘Adventure Time’
The animated series ‘Adventure Time’ concluded with a kiss between Marceline and Princess Bubblegum, solidifying a romantic relationship that had been hinted at throughout the show. A later special, ‘Distant Lands: Obsidian,’ explored their shared past and showed them navigating challenges as a couple. The original series, which aired on Cartoon Network, was known for its slow-burn storytelling and resonated with many viewers. Episodes centered around music were often the most emotionally impactful for Marceline’s character.
Pearl, ‘Steven Universe’
Pearl’s strong feelings for Rose Quartz are a key part of her story in ‘Steven Universe,’ and the show uses flashbacks and music to show this. Later, an episode hints that Pearl is attracted to someone new—a human character called Mystery Girl. Both ‘Steven Universe’ and its sequel, ‘Steven Universe Future,’ which aired on Cartoon Network, were known for developing characters gradually over time, and these moments clearly show Pearl’s romantic feelings as part of the official storyline.
Waylon Smithers, ‘The Simpsons’
In a 2016 episode of ‘The Simpsons,’ Smithers finally came out as gay, and the show later developed a romantic storyline for him with a new partner. The series portrays his transformation from a private assistant to someone openly seeking a relationship. As one of television’s longest-running primetime shows, airing on Fox, ‘The Simpsons’ has continued to explore Smithers’ personal life since this development.
Lexington, ‘Gargoyles’
The show’s creator, Greg Weisman, has confirmed that the character Lexington is gay, adding depth to the story beyond what could be shown on television when the series originally aired. Although the show didn’t depict a romantic partner for him, details revealed in later comics and through Weisman’s commentary establish this part of his identity. ‘Gargoyles’ originally aired in syndication and finished its run on ABC’s Saturday morning cartoon block. These follow-up materials, including comics and Q&A sessions, have allowed for a fuller exploration of the characters and their backgrounds.
Mr. Simmons, ‘Hey Arnold!’
Mr. Simmons is presented as a recurring character, and later episodes establish him as a gay teacher who lives in the neighborhood. The show subtly portrays his personal life through scenes of his home and family, avoiding heavy-handed moralizing. ‘Hey Arnold!’, which aired on Nickelodeon, was known for developing characters organically within relatable, everyday situations. This allowed Mr. Simmons’s identity to feel like a natural part of who he is, rather than a dramatic reveal.
Harley Quinn, ‘Batman: The Animated Series’
Harley Quinn first appeared in ‘Batman: The Animated Series,’ where an episode featuring Poison Ivy hinted at a close connection. Later stories, in both animated series and comics, explored this bond, eventually developing it into a romantic relationship. These portrayals often show Harley and Poison Ivy as partners in life, not just as fellow criminals. Harley Quinn originally gained popularity on television through ‘Batman: The Animated Series’ on Fox Kids, and her story was then further expanded in comic books, carrying forward the foundation of their relationship.
Shiro, ‘Voltron: Legendary Defender’
As ‘Voltron: Legendary Defender’ progressed, the show delved into Shiro’s past relationship with Adam, ultimately showing him finding happiness by the series’ end. These personal stories weren’t just brief moments; flashbacks and time jumps wove them into the central storyline. Because the show was on Netflix, it could develop these arcs over multiple episodes. Shiro’s story stands out as one of the clearest examples of positive LGBTQ+ representation aimed at adults within the series.
Amity Blight, ‘The Owl House’
Amity develops feelings for Luz, and their connection blossoms into a romantic relationship throughout the series, with several episodes dedicated to their dates, heartfelt confessions, and kisses. The show follows Amity’s journey from Luz’s initial rival to a loving and supportive partner, even as she challenges her family’s expectations. ‘The Owl House’ benefited from airing on Disney Channel, which helped it build a consistent weekend viewership, and their relationship remained central to the story in the show’s final episodes.
Benson, ‘Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts’
In ‘Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts’, Benson openly shares that he’s gay, and the show goes on to explore his relationships and friendships as a natural part of his character. The series portrays his sexuality as just one aspect of his journey growing up. Released on Netflix over the course of a year, the show establishes that being true to himself shapes how others interact with him.
Luna Loud, ‘The Loud House’
Luna develops a sweet spot for Sam Sharp, and their connection blossoms through shared experiences like notes, concerts, and school activities. The show portrays them in realistic, everyday situations with friends and family. ‘The Loud House,’ which airs on Nickelodeon, reaches a broad audience of kids and families, and often uses music to emphasize Luna’s emotions.
Sheriff Blubs and Deputy Durland, ‘Gravity Falls’
Throughout the series ‘Gravity Falls’, Sheriff Blubs and Deputy Durland develop a sweet relationship, eventually confessing their feelings for each other. Their playful back-and-forth gradually becomes clear confirmation of their romance, especially in the final episodes. Originally airing on Disney Channel and later moving to Disney XD, the show reached a wider audience of young teens and pre-teens. Comments from the show’s creator and the way the series concluded firmly establish their relationship as a key part of the story.
Share which characters surprised you most and add the ones we missed in the comments.
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2025-10-30 07:46