I was pondering the famous question: Is Batman gay?

[seaflower]

I was pondering the famous question

"Is Batman gay?"

For the most part I would have to say ...no . I don't think Bob Kane created Batman with the intention of making him a gay character...I like to think of him as a father figure to Dick. Thought I will admit that once in awhile I enjoy reading some really well written slash fanfics about Batman and a legally aged Nightwing...

But on the other hand, does it really matter if he is gay or not?
Everyone has their own opinions and interpretations of Batman. Even thought he isn't real, he still motivates and is a hero to many. Can't several interpretations exist?

I will admit that as someone who identifiys as a Bisexual, I think that people who identify as someone who isn't heterosexual sometimes look to super-heros for motivation and strength.. I use to identify with Batman's need to have a secret identity. I connected with Batman during Hush when he wondered if he should reveal himself to selina, and try to at least step a bit closer to the light. I like Elongated Man because he found the strength to publicly out himself and I too wonder if I can ever live a life that could include stablitiy and children.

I think everyone has their cross to bear and that super-heros like Batman, are able to influence various different people from different background to stay strong and find their own way to live. So in conclusion...

What does it matter if he is gay or not....He is who you want him to be for you....

Bottom Line: He is a hero

[Jake V]

I always thought of him as asexual. Well, as asexual as a 12 year old boy can be. Because that's basically what he is. He is as single minded and obsessed as he was when his parents were killed. He's just become really really good at pretending to be an adult.

Is he gay? No. His relationships with various women over the years puts that idea to rest. I dont think being "straight" is one of his defining characteristics, his sexuality really isn't that important. But he isn't gay. He simply isn't.

[colossus34]

I always thought of him as asexual. Well, as asexual as a 12 year old boy can be. Because that's basically what he is. He is as single minded and obsessed as he was when his parents were killed. He's just become really really good at pretending to be an adult.

Is he gay? No. His relationships with various women over the years puts that idea to rest. I dont think being "straight" is one of his defining characteristics, his sexuality really isn't that important. But he isn't gay. He simply isn't.


I'm going to have to disagree on the asexual part. I mean even growing up as a kid, I would idolize how Bruce Wayne was the ultimate ladies man and women were always falling for him. And this aspect of Bruce's life, as a playboy is a big part of his life and legacy.

[colossus34]

I was pondering the famous question

"Is Batman gay?"

For the most part I would have to say ...no . I don't think Bob Kane created Batman with the intention of making him a gay character...I like to think of him as a father figure to Dick. Thought I will admit that once in awhile I enjoy reading some really well written slash fanfics about Batman and a legally aged Nightwing...

Bottom Line: He is a hero


You see, the way I always saw Nightwing and Batman's relationship was an older brother/younger borther and NOT father/son. It makes more sense, since both experienced the same tragic event happening to their parents and are bonded by it. I think Bruce realized that if he didn't step in to help Dick find an outlet for his newfound rage, he would either turn to vengence or become the isolated, bitter and singleminded vigilante that Batman has evolved to. If you look at how Dick turned out, for the most part I think Bruce was successfull.

And I agree=BOTTOM LINE IS THEY ARE HEROS!

[dancj]

I'm going to have to disagree on the asexual part. I mean even growing up as a kid, I would idolize how Bruce Wayne was the ultimate ladies man and women were always falling for him. And this aspect of Bruce's life, as a playboy is a big part of his life and legacy.

True, but it's also an act.

Obviously through the realationships he's had he's not 100% asexual, but I think he hovers somewhere between hetro and asexual

[Grant]

Is Batman gay?

Only in my dreams... only in my dreams

http://www.christianbale.net/galleries/magazines/images/starlog05.jpg

Wait... I didn't say that.

*Quickly hides Batman/Nightwing slash.

[SlightlyMad]

I like Elongated Man because he found the strength to publicly out himself

:confused: Really? Did Sue know?

[Converge]

Is Batman gay?

Only in my dreams... only in my dreams

http://www.christianbale.net/galleries/magazines/images/starlog05.jpg

Wait... I didn't say that.

*Quickly hides Batman/Nightwing slash.

He looks like an Oompa-Loompa in that picture.

[Tsoul]

Thought I will admit that once in awhile I enjoy reading some really well written slash fanfics about Batman and a legally aged Nightwing...



yaoi fangirl? O.o......

[1HELLBOY]

I like Elongated Man because he found the strength to publicly out himself



Whatchoo talkin' 'bout, Willis?? :confused:

[dazzler_slave]

Whatchoo talkin' 'bout, Willis?? :confused:

Seaflower means he outed himself as a superhero. The people of the DC Universe know that Ralph Dibny is Elongated Man.

[1HELLBOY]

Seaflower means he outed himself as a superhero. The people of the DC Universe know that Ralph Dibny is Elongated Man.



I knew that. I thought she meant it in another way.

[Mia]

yaoi fangirl? O.o......


Yep either that or a troll (Shouldn't they be confined to Newsarama?). I wonder how many posts before this is locked.

[1HELLBOY]

Yep either that or a troll (Shouldn't they be confined to Newsarama?). I wonder how many posts before this is locked.



How's she a troll.


And I'm not disagreeing with you Mia, I'm just curious.

[trickster]

How's she a troll.


And I'm not disagreeing with you Mia, I'm just curious.

Look you people have Freddie Mercury, Anne Heche, Tchaikovsky (spelling? you know the composer?). You can have Nightwing and Wonder Woman for all I care. But will you please effing stop trying to claim everything as a gay icon?

[1HELLBOY]

Look you people have Freddie Mercury, Anne Heche, Tchaikovsky (spelling? you know the composer?). You can have Nightwing and Wonder Woman for all I care. But will you please effing stop trying to claim everything as a gay icon?


What do you mean "You people?"



If by that you are saying that I'm gay, you have no idea what you're talking about.

I am not gay. Nor do I see Batman as a gay icon. He is not gay as far as I am concerned.

And my question was not directed to you, you homophobic jackass. If I ask you a question, THEN you may answer.

[colossus34]

Look you people have Freddie Mercury, Anne Heche, Tchaikovsky (spelling? you know the composer?). You can have Nightwing and Wonder Woman for all I care. But will you please effing stop trying to claim everything as a gay icon?

No way. Nightwing is the shit....nobody gets him but Babs!

[trickster]

What do you mean "You people?"



If by that you are saying that I'm gay, you have no idea what you're talking about.

I am not gay. Nor do I see Batman as a gay icon. He is not gay as far as I am concerned.

And my question was not directed to you, you homophobic jackass. If I ask you a question, THEN you may answer.

Why so defensive?

[1HELLBOY]

Why so defensive?




I'm not being defensive. I'm just stating a fact.

[Hellcow]

When you see Batman and Robin dressed up in their costumes together, you can't help but wonder what they get up to in their down time.

Instead of looking at the drawings, pretend you were looking at photo's of actors in constumes striking the same poses. It then becomes pretty clear why Robin is sometimes called The Boy Wonder.

I think this is also why Frank Miller insisted that "The Boy Wonder" be included in the title of All Star Batman and Robin, because he wants to take the piss.

[Bloopinator]

BATMAN ISN'T GAY!!! But Superman is secretly.....

[Chad G.]

You know, it takes a lot to get me irritated or raise my ire. I am a pretty even keeled and, so to speak, cold person. But this thread really does make me go WTF. For Gods sake, why does everyone have to be gay. Really. To make everyone feel all warm and fuzzy, do we have to make some aspect of everything gay. This is the Batman we are talking about here. BATMAN. CAN YOU GET ANYMORE UN-GAY. Look at all the chicks he has fallen for. The black widow type chick from Haunted Knight, or Selina. How on the name of all thats holy can you call Batman gay. This strikes me as another one of those threads where some sets a fire, and just sits back and laughs while people throw gas on it and stoke it higher, like some sort of political correctness land mine. Well screw being politically corrrect. Batman is most certainly not gay. :evilangry

I'm off my soap box now.

[1HELLBOY]

You know, it takes a lot to get me irritated or raise my ire. I am a pretty even keeled and, so to speak, cold person. But this thread really does make me go WTF. For Gods sake, why does everyone have to be gay. Really. To make everyone feel all warm and fuzzy, do we have to make some aspect of everything gay. This is the Batman we are talking about here. BATMAN. CAN YOU GET ANYMORE UN-GAY. Look at all the chicks he has fallen for. The black widow type chick from Haunted Knight, or Selina. How on the name of all thats holy can you call Batman gay. This strikes me as another one of those threads where some sets a fire, and just sits back and laughs while people throw gas on it and stoke it higher, like some sort of political correctness land mine. Well screw being politically corrrect. Batman is most certainly not gay. :evilangry

I'm off my soap box now.


That sounds good enough for me. :D

[Chad G.]

That sounds good enough for me. :D

Anytime my friend. I do aim to please. :)

[ChrisII]

The site www.superdickery.com has a few interesting panels and covers which make you wonder....

[trickster]

I'm not being defensive. I'm just stating a fact.

Dude, before you think I'm backing down or anything. I was looking at your post when I wanted to post a reply and since I'm used to hitting the quote button, I hit it and thus I accidentally posted a reply with quote to your post. Seeing as how my attention was divided between several tasks at the time and I've been in front of this damn PC all day and my head is spinning, I say let's wrap it up here If I ask you a question, THEN you may answer., "your majesty".

[1HELLBOY]

Dude, before you think I'm backing down or anything. I was looking at your post when I wanted to post a reply and since I'm used to hitting the quote button, I hit it and thus I accidentally posted a reply with quote to your post. Seeing as how my attention was divided between several tasks at the time and I've been in front of this damn PC all day and my head is spinning, I say let's wrap it up here , "your majesty".



Good enough for me.

[Hellcow]

So Batman has dated a lot of women. But is this a cover up?

Maybe so. If you consider that Bruce, with his money looks and charm could have an endless supply of women to his liking, then a lot of guys wouldn't be able to find the time to go and fight crime in that situation.

But Bruce can... tagging Robin along for the ride.

[Chad G.]

But Bruce can... tagging Robin along for the ride.

Is that meant to be a "cute" play on words???

[Chad G.]

Good enough for me.

Nice when people finally show respect, no? ;)

[1HELLBOY]

Nice when people finally show respect, no? ;)


Heh.......


*damn 10 character rule*

[Dr. Drake Ramoray]

Is Batman gay? Haven't you been reading this board? There are posts without number of him being an anti-social, humorless jerk. Doesn't sound very gay to me ;)

[colossus34]

Even the most hardcore fan can't deny that looking back at old 50' 60's Batman comics its hard not to see "ambigious" stuff going on. I mean when I saw the Bat panel and cover below it was pretty clear the writers of that era were trying to hint at something odder than a typical superhero/sidekick relationship.

Lets just be glad were not living in that era because frankly I think it wasn't cool!!!!

[Guts/Batman]

Who cares if he is gay or not?

I sure as hell don't.

If you wanna focus on that, that's your business.

[1HELLBOY]

Even the most hardcore fan can't deny that looking back at old 50' 60's Batman comics its hard not to see "ambigious" stuff going on. I mean when I saw the Bat panel and cover below it was pretty clear the writers of that era were trying to hint at something odder than a typical superhero/sidekick relationship.

Lets just be glad were not living in that era because frankly I think it wasn't cool!!!!



Actually, yes I can.


It was a much more simpler and innocent time some 60 years ago. End of story.

[Hellcow]

Actually, yes I can.


It was a much more simpler and innocent time some 60 years ago. End of story.


There is always been a significant number of gay people in art related jobs such as comics, film and TV. When you say "innocent time", what was really happening is a lot of people weren't clued into subtext.

Elton John, George Michael, The Village People all had lots of young girls chasing them around, without a clue that they were gay. Just because the audience can't see it, doesn't mean the performer is not gay.

And just because a lot of industry professionals are not openly gay, doesn't mean they are not gay either, and sometimes it slips into their work, even if it is only on a subconscious level.

[Chad G.]

it was pretty clear the writers of that era were trying to hint at something odder than a typical superhero/sidekick relationship

No, it wasn't. It was an error of free love and all that hippy psycho-babble. But it was in no way an attempt to portray Batman and Robin as....
God, I can't even say it.

Who cares if he is gay or not?

I sure as hell don't.


For once G/B, I agree with you. ;)

There is always been a significant number of gay people in art related jobs such as comics, film and TV. When you say "innocent time", what was really happening is a lot of people weren't clued into subtext.

Elton John, George Michael, The Village People all had lots of young girls chasing them around, without a clue that they were gay. Just because the audience can't see it, doesn't mean the performer is not gay.

And just because a lot of industry professionals are not openly gay, doesn't mean they are not gay either, and sometimes it slips into their work, even if it is only on a subconscious level.

You know, there are times in my life that I need a good laugh. And someone attempting to compare Batman to Elton, George Michael, and the Village People certainly pulls that off. Lets all picture Bruce Wayne serenading an arena full of lighter holding people with Candle in the Wind.

I am going to go get a beer, club a baby seal, build something manly, and then beat my chest while I laugh my butt off.

And spotted owl tastes like chicken.

:D

[1HELLBOY]

There is always been a significant number of gay people in art related jobs such as comics, film and TV. When you say "innocent time", what was really happening is a lot of people weren't clued into subtext.

Elton John, George Michael, The Village People all had lots of young girls chasing them around, without a clue that they were gay. Just because the audience can't see it, doesn't mean the performer is not gay.

And just because a lot of industry professionals are not openly gay, doesn't mean they are not gay either, and sometimes it slips into their work, even if it is only on a subconscious level.


Comparing Batman, a fictional character, to Elton John, George Michael, and, of ALL people, The Village People...Uh-huh...

I can't even comprehend that.

[seaflower]

You know it is interesting how I wrote this thread not in the interest of trying to define Batman as a homosexual or a heterosexual.

My main point was this:
Everyone has their own interpretation of icon superheros like Batman and Superman and I am wondering why is it so hard for alot of people to allow people to have their own interpretations into these characters. I think everyone turns to these character for their own reason and I also believe that sometimes there are elements about these character's lives that anyone and everyone interprets and applies to their own life.

I think the secret life element and the feelings of alienation and angst are what draws many people who identify as gay, bi, whatever to characters like Batman and Superman. Again I don't think that Batman is gay but I do think that for many people who aren't heterosexual that he can be seen as a pillar of strength . We all read bits of ourselves into our favorite characters.
Plus, who does it hurt if some people think Batman is gay? None . Plus isn't it amazing that for some people, they get the strength to deal with the many social problems that come with being gay from these heros? I mean in someways Batman's superhero status transcends his fictional boundaries. Again, this is merely one interpretation and one way Batman helps some people.

For many people, including a very close male bud of mine, he loves reading Batman because he encourages him to work pass the pain of his parents death and make dedicate his life to help improve the world anyway he can. Another guy friend of mine, reads Batman because he has always felt really alienated from society due to the sad fact that he is immensely intelligent yet lack simple social skills which he is painfully trying to develop.

In conclusion: I think the constant debate of trying to identify Batman as heterosexual or homosexual doesn't really matter. For some people he is hetero and for some he is homo, and for fangirls like me, I still regard Batman mostly as a father figure to Nightwing and whose heart belongs to Catwoman. I just like to indulge in the few well written slash fanfics with Batman and a legal age Nightwing. Once in awhile.

In the end: Batman is a hero, regardless of how you see him, that is what matters most.

[The Xenos]

Yeah, back in the 50s and 60s there was room in between the panels that you could assume they were kinda gay. Though it was all in how you read it. I am rahter against that view as Wertham used it to attack comics and said it corrupted kids and lead them to the supposedly illicit gay lifestyle.

As for the current Batman and Batman since the 70s overhaul, I think it's a very intersting complexity that has nothing to do with homosexuality. Batman just can't get close to a woman because he fears losing her. He did see his parents gunned down before his eyes as a kid. As for why he needs a Robin, I see it as his biological clock ticking for a son, or at least the need for someone to carry on after he's done. The role of Robin also brings some light to his darkness even if that's not what he intended.

-Xenos

[Grant]

I think it's funny we impose a sexuality on Batman. He's a fictional character. He can be anything the writer wants him to be. He's been a viking, a vampire, a Russian guy, a pirate, Superman, etc etc so if some wants to write a gay Batman story he can be gay too.

Yes I realize these are all elseworlds but c'mon it's still Batman.

[Hellcow]

Comparing Batman, a fictional character, to Elton John, George Michael, and, of ALL people, The Village People...Uh-huh...

I can't even comprehend that.


I can see that you can't comprehend it, because you missed the point.

The point was not that batman is like Elton John. The point was that for a long time a lot of people did not know that Elton John was gay. Just like a lot of readers of the 40's and 50's didn't see some of the gay inferences when reading their batman comics.

You can keep telling yourself that the earth is flat, but it doesn't make it so.

I agree with Grant, if a writer wants Batman to be gay, then for THAT story batman will be, even if it is through subtle implications.

[FunkyGreenJerusalem]

You know, it takes a lot to get me irritated or raise my ire. I am a pretty even keeled and, so to speak, cold person.

I don't know you, but having read your post I'd say it was the exact opposite actually.

Either you identify way to strongly with a FICTIONAL character, or your so homophobic that it's heading towards being a bigot.

But it was in no way an attempt to portray Batman and Robin as....
God, I can't even say it.


Why not?

It's just a word.

Why does this bother you so much?

[FunkyGreenJerusalem]

I agree with Grant, if a writer wants Batman to be gay, then for THAT story batman will be, even if it is through subtle implications.

Just like how Azzarello decided Batman had a small Penis and enjoyed flirting with gangster moles and beating people up.

[colossus34]

I can see that you can't comprehend it, because you missed the point.

The point was not that batman is like Elton John. The point was that for a long time a lot of people did not know that Elton John was gay. Just like a lot of readers of the 40's and 50's didn't see some of the gay inferences when reading their batman comics.

You can keep telling yourself that the earth is flat, but it doesn't make it so.

I agree with Grant, if a writer wants Batman to be gay, then for THAT story batman will be, even if it is through subtle implications.

Very good points. If Batman was still written the way he was in the 50's 60's it pretty obvious there was subtle gay inference going on just look at the comics! I doubt its what Bob Kane intended for the character when he created him, but writers afterwerd obviously had their own agenda.

But I also agree with Xenos previous post in that the 70's overhaul has given the character a more modern overhaul that makes his charcter more dynamic and true to the spirt that Bob Kane intended for him.

[Chad G.]

I don't know you, but having read your post I'd say it was the exact opposite actually.

Either you identify way to strongly with a FICTIONAL character, or your so homophobic that it's heading towards being a bigot.



Why not?

It's just a word.

Why does this bother you so much?

How amusing. Should I assume that the fear of being labeled homophobic was meant to be incentive enough to make me back down. :evilsmile I have no problem whatsoever with stating that is makes me sick to consider Batman gay. It does. Period. And should I also be afraid to say that I believe that being gay is morally wrong. Fraid not. I don't particularly see the point in standing on the podium of being politically correct, and being afraid to say what you really feel. Makes for a pitiful person without a sense of backbone in my opinion. Now, do I feel that everyone should be allowed to live their life the way they see fit. OF COURSE. But I don't have to be a part of it. I do not have to support it. We don't have troops dying everyday in god-forsaken countries to give people the choice to live their own lives and make their own decisions. Gays can live there lives their own way, and I can live mine.

And as far as relating too much to a fictional character too strongly, maybe you're right. I could always idolize my presidents. Wait, they tend to get impeached and lie about their sexual flings. Maybe a professional athlete. Noooo, I guess I can't forget about the drug use, spousal abuse, and gambling problems. I know, maybe a member of the church, like a catholic priest. WHOOPS. Never mind there. Got a better example than a fictional character???????


SO if that is an attempt to bait me into some sort of argument over the "correctness" of homosexuality, or the fear of being label a, lol, bigot, good try. But read more. I don't dance in the shadows when making a point. I say it.

[Lurker]

You know it is interesting how I wrote this thread not in the interest of trying to define Batman as a homosexual or a heterosexual.

My main point was this:
Everyone has their own interpretation of icon superheros like Batman and Superman and I am wondering why is it so hard for alot of people to allow people to have their own interpretations into these characters. I think everyone turns to these character for their own reason and I also believe that sometimes there are elements about these character's lives that anyone and everyone interprets and applies to their own life.

I think the secret life element and the feelings of alienation and angst are what draws many people who identify as gay, bi, whatever to characters like Batman and Superman. Again I don't think that Batman is gay but I do think that for many people who aren't heterosexual that he can be seen as a pillar of strength . We all read bits of ourselves into our favorite characters.
Plus, who does it hurt if some people think Batman is gay? None . Plus isn't it amazing that for some people, they get the strength to deal with the many social problems that come with being gay from these heros? I mean in someways Batman's superhero status transcends his fictional boundaries. Again, this is merely one interpretation and one way Batman helps some people.

For many people, including a very close male bud of mine, he loves reading Batman because he encourages him to work pass the pain of his parents death and make dedicate his life to help improve the world anyway he can. Another guy friend of mine, reads Batman because he has always felt really alienated from society due to the sad fact that he is immensely intelligent yet lack simple social skills which he is painfully trying to develop.

In conclusion: I think the constant debate of trying to identify Batman as heterosexual or homosexual doesn't really matter. For some people he is hetero and for some he is homo, and for fangirls like me, I still regard Batman mostly as a father figure to Nightwing and whose heart belongs to Catwoman. I just like to indulge in the few well written slash fanfics with Batman and a legal age Nightwing. Once in awhile.

In the end: Batman is a hero, regardless of how you see him, that is what matters most.

^
^
^
Worth repeating.

[trickster]

How amusing. Should I assume that the fear of being labeled homophobic was meant to be incentive enough to make me back down. :evilsmile I have no problem whatsoever with stating that is makes me sick to consider Batman gay. It does. Period. And should I also be afraid to say that I believe that being gay is morally wrong. Fraid not. I don't particularly see the point in standing on the podium of being politically correct, and being afraid to say what you really feel. Makes for a pitiful person without a sense of backbone in my opinion. Now, do I feel that everyone should be allowed to live their life the way they see fit. OF COURSE. But I don't have to be a part of it. I do not have to support it. We don't have troops dying everyday in god-forsaken countries to give people the choice to live their own lives and make their own decisions. Gays can live there lives their own way, and I can live mine.

And as far as relating too much to a fictional character too strongly, maybe you're right. I could always idolize my presidents. Wait, they tend to get impeached and lie about their sexual flings. Maybe a professional athlete. Noooo, I guess I can't forget about the drug use, spousal abuse, and gambling problems. I know, maybe a member of the church, like a catholic priest. WHOOPS. Never mind there. Got a better example that a fictional character???????


SO if that is an attempt to bait me into some sort of argument over the "correctness" of homosexuality, or the fear of being label a, lol, bigot, good try. But read more. I don't dance in the shadows when making a point. I say it.

Great post! And I agree with you 100%.

[seaflower]

^
^
^
Worth repeating.

Thanks. Nice pic by the way.

[Chad G.]

Great post! And I agree with you 100%.

Thank you. I appreciate it.
:D

[Zeta]

You know, it's not the Batman character himself that makes people think he's gay (although I do agree with the interpetation of the character that shows him in emotional arrested development at the age of 12 - and thus unable to really be sexual at all), it's the prescence of Robin, really. Back in the 40's and 50's, it may not have been suspect for a 30-something single man to adopt a string of young boys (although I doubt it), but today, we find that a tad questionable.

It's not so much anything about Batman himself - it's really just Robin. Batman on his own doesn't really come off as gay, but add in a young unrelated boy who he dresses up in skin-tight costumes - and everyone should be able to admit that's pretty dodgy.

[Guts/Batman]

It's not so much anything about Batman himself - it's really just Robin. Batman on his own doesn't really come off as gay, but add in a young unrelated boy who he dresses up in skin-tight costumes - and everyone should be able to admit that's pretty dodgy.

It is dodgy. But I simply don't care enough about it to make it an issue.

[Lord Grog]

Batman is not gay. Next question?

LG

[Jared_Humpherys]

Batman's not gay, he's a misogynist:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/brianjcrowley/BatSpank.jpg

[1HELLBOY]

Batman's not gay, he's a misogynist:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/brianjcrowley/BatSpank.jpg



Everytime I see that it makes me laugh my ass off. :D

[rickfury188]

[QUOTE=seaflower]I was pondering the famous question

"Is Batman gay?"

For the most part I would have to say ...no . I don't think Bob Kane created Batman with the intention of making him a gay character...I like to think of him as a father figure to Dick. Thought I will admit that once in awhile I enjoy reading some really well written slash fanfics about Batman and a legally aged Nightwing...

But on the other hand, does it really matter if he is gay or not?
Everyone has their own opinions and interpretations of Batman. Even thought he isn't real, he still motivates and is a hero to many. Can't several interpretations exist?

I will admit that as someone who identifiys as a Bisexual, I think that people who identify as someone who isn't heterosexual sometimes look to super-heros for motivation and strength.. I use to identify with Batman's need to have a secret identity. I connected with Batman during Hush when he wondered if he should reveal himself to selina, and try to at least step a bit closer to the light. I like Elongated Man because he found the strength to publicly out himself and I too wonder if I can ever live a life that could include stablitiy and children.

I think everyone has their cross to bear and that super-heros like Batman, are able to influence various different people from different background to stay strong and find their own way to live. So in conclusion...

What does it matter if he is gay or not....He is who you want him to be for you....

Bottom Line: He is a hero[/QUOTE/]

Blasphemy! Batman is not gay. He is so obsessed that he does not like to let women get in the way of his oath to his parents.

[Mia]

Batman just can't get close to a woman because he fears losing her. He did see his parents gunned down before his eyes as a kid.
-Xenos

Actually I think that Batman can get close to a woman. He just has no interest in settling down right now.
Between being Batman and running a global conglomerate I just think he is just too busy to give his time to a family. What’s the character supposed to be, in his mid 30’s. That’s plenty of time to settle down. Many men don’t get married and have kids until their 40’s.

[Typo Lad]

BATMAN ISN'T GAY!!! But Superman is secretly.....

Evidence to back you up:

http://luchins.com/dickery/bb63veryFONDofgirls.jpg

[Typo Lad]

Batman's not gay, he's a misogynist:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/brianjcrowley/BatSpank.jpg

He actually follows through with it:

http://luchins.com/dickery/pappaREALLYspanks.jpg

[Hellcow]

ooooo naughty naughty

[Joe no Sleep]

I never thought he was gay. I do think that the hastily-written and drawn comics of the past may have created some questionable imagery that led to it. So long as it sells comics, DC/AOL/Turner/Time Warner will hold their tongues - and sue any public displays of gay fan art. :D

[Helena]

I was pondering the famous question

"Is Batman gay?"

For the most part I would have to say ...no .




Well you answered your own question.


I don't think Bob Kane created Batman with the intention of making him a gay character


No Bob Kane and (let's not forget) Bill Finger created Batman as an alter ego. He was supposed to be a rich arristocrat, very smooth and cultured and who was able to screw any woman he wanted to.


...I like to think of him as a father figure to Dick. Thought I will admit that once in awhile I enjoy reading some really well written slash fanfics about Batman and a legally aged Nightwing...



Cripes, this is SICK You actually get off on wanting to see a man have sex with his own son?




But on the other hand, does it really matter if he is gay or not?
Everyone has their own opinions and interpretations of Batman. Even thought he isn't real, he still motivates and is a hero to many. Can't several interpretations exist?

I will admit that as someone who identifiys as a Bisexual, I think that people who identify as someone who isn't heterosexual sometimes look to super-heros for motivation and strength.. I use to identify with Batman's need to have a secret identity. I connected with Batman during Hush when he wondered if he should reveal himself to selina, and try to at least step a bit closer to the light. I like Elongated Man because he found the strength to publicly out himself and I too wonder if I can ever live a life that could include stablitiy and children.



I don't get what your on about. Being gay is an erotic sexual desire for someone of the same gender. Being a hero is an action.

Can Batman be gay? SURE Batman can be gay. Anyone who puts on the cape and cowl (and is male) becomes Batman (if a woman does it she's Batwoman. If a girl does it she's Batgirl if a boy does it he's Batboy).

If a gay man puts on the cape and cowl then he becomes Batman. So Batman can gay.

But Bruce Wayne isn't gay. He is decidedly hetero sexual. Just recently we saw him sleeping with his ex. And dropping in for a quickie with Selina Kyle.

That answer your question?




I think everyone has their cross to bear and that super-heros like Batman, are able to influence various different people from different background to stay strong and find their own way to live. So in conclusion...

What does it matter if he is gay or not....He is who you want him to be for you....



Hmmmm well I guess so. But that still change in any way who the hero actually is. I can say a triangle has four sides. But that doesn't make it a triangle. No matter how much I wish it is.

[seaflower]

Hmmmm well I guess so. But that still change in any way who the hero actually is. I can say a triangle has four sides. But that doesn't make it a triangle. No matter how much I wish it is.

Personally a hero's sexual orientation may affect who he/she is but it doesn't really change,erase or belittle their heroic act. I mean if I was to be hit by a bus and someone saved me, I have to say that I couldn't care less if they love and fuck someone of the same sex, opposite sex or an elephant. They are still the hero who saved my life.

Look the main point of my post was to talk how I come to the conclusion that Batman's sexual orientation doesn't really matter, each fan has the personal freedom to intrepret a character in any manner they want. This concept is called PERCEPTION.

I was more interested in talking about how and why Batman is sometimes preceived to be gay. I also want to give my own opinion on why I think people who aren't heterosexual sometimes relate/empathize so strongly with superhero's and in particular, Batman.

I mean personally, I for the most part like to view Batman as straight. Huge Cats/Bats fan. But if it helps someone to think of him as gay or straight and they are able to use that intrepretation to help inspire themselves to keep strong and live a good life, isn't that more interesting/important?

This thread that I created has cause me to have alot of laughs. So ironic, I meant to create a thread that tried to get passed the debate "Is Batman Gay" and in the end, most of the replies to my thread have been about who he likes to fuck girls or boys. Legal boys that is....

Also just so that you know Helena, I didn't ask for any answers, since I didn't really post a question in my thread. I basically created this thread to express my opinion on this subjuct and post it on this forum in order to learn what other people thought about it. But your efforts for trying to answer my...um... *questions* are appericated.

*Kisses*

[colossus34]

He actually follows through with it:

http://luchins.com/dickery/pappaREALLYspanks.jpg


More more reason to believe politcal correctness sucks!! Why can't we get more of Batman taking ladies over his lap and giving them a good spankin! Just goes to show you that silver-age pre-crises may have been written more for kids but they are still a damn hoot! :p

[Kari Anna]

It stuns me how often people seem to think one has to be flat-out gay or completely straight.

I think (due to some of the old comics, Wertham's Seduction of the Innocent, and just the dynamic between Bruce and Dick or Batman and Robin-- and the many women Bruce has been with, not to mention Dick's own love-life) they're bisexual. Is it really that difficult to imagine a millionaire playboy-- who attends more social events in the span of a year than most people will in their lifetime-- as being attracted to both sexes? But, let's suppose they're not:

Running in the circles he does, I seriously doubt Bruce would be a homophobe, either. And Dick, having been raised in two highly social environments (the circus and with Bruce) would have seen about as much as Bruce and would probably be no more disgusted by homosexuals than most people would by het couples.

True, that doesn't mean they would be gay or bi, but I seriously don't think a few peoples' viewpoints should be such an issue, when the characters themselves have never made an issue of it.

[Chaosopher]

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l12/Chaosopher/bed3rc.jpg

Not gay at all.

[Kari Anna]

Hehehe! I think I love you, Chaosopher. Lovely argument, that.

Yes, apparent proof that Bruce Wayne is, in fact, bisexual.

[The Shadow]

You know it is interesting how I wrote this thread not in the interest of trying to define Batman as a homosexual or a heterosexual.
I totally disagree... because if you really did mean to discuss the possibility of Batman as being interpreted by gay's as a source of inspiration you would have had a totally different thread title and you wouldn't have phrased your thread in the form of a question.

"Is Batman Gay or Simply a hero..." openly invites people to interpret or define Batman as gay or hetrosexual. The only thing missing was the question mark at the end.

I gotta agree with Guts earlier in the thread... Who cares if he is gay or not?
I sure as hell don't.
If you wanna focus on that, that's your business.
I want to read about Batman shitkicking the Joker for killing someone. I don't read SUPERHERO comics for the love stories... if I wanted that I'd read Romance Comics.

[curefreak]

i think this is the problem with kid sidekicks especially ones who walk around in short shorts (robin , aqualad) captain america had a kid sidekick that was fully dressed that didnt live with him and noone ever accused him of being gay.
i dont wanna give credence to someone like mr wertham cause i dont think anyone noticed the subtle inferances (they were subtle at the time i hope) but i cant see any kid looking at this and going "oh i wanna try and be gay now"
but it is hard to take a character seriously when you see some of the pictures that have been posted on here(not to mention schumachers films) i just wanna go on the record saying that most gay affiliated characters in comics seemed just as forced as the other minorities that dc has been promoting.

[Kari Anna]

[...] i just wanna go on the record saying that most gay affiliated characters in comics seemed just as forced as the other minorities that dc has been promoting.

Really? Try reading Static Shock. Dwayne McDuffie, the creator, says his Richie Foley (a.k.a. Gear) character is gay. And he doesn't come off as forced to me. I have to agree, though, some of the minority characters do come off as very forced. Maybe they should get people who actually are that character's minority to write the comics, because as an Alaska Native girl, I know I don't want some Native character going, "How, white man." Gods' sakes. We are not the Hollywood stereotypes you see on TV.

And to those of you who do not think Batman and Robin I/Nightwing are gay or bi, check out Superdickery. (http://www.superdickery.com/seduction/1.html)

[curefreak]

Really? Try reading Static Shock. Dwayne McDuffie, the creator, says his Richie Foley (a.k.a. Gear) character is gay. And he doesn't come off as forced to me. I have to agree, though, some of the minority characters do come off as very forced. Maybe they should get people who actually are that character's minority to write the comics, because as an Alaska Native girl, I know I don't want some Native character going, "How, white man." Gods' sakes. We are not the Hollywood stereotypes you see on TV.

And to those of you who do not think Batman and Robin I/Nightwing are gay or bi, check out Superdickery. (http://www.superdickery.com/seduction/1.html)
everything ive seen at superdickery is silver age pre crisis batman so not only is it not relevant its not even the same batman were reading now. and as for static shock the only time i watched the show was when someone from the justice league would show up ... i know this is probably gonna sound bad but i always thought static seemed a little too white for me but maybe he was portrayed that way on purpose either way i guess.

[The Shadow]

And to those of you who do not think Batman and Robin I/Nightwing are gay or bi, check out Superdickery. (http://www.superdickery.com/seduction/1.html)


As curefreak said those are old... really old. It was a totally different time and as has been pointed out, the word "Boner" had a different meaning back in the 1940's... much like "Gay" meant happy and not gay as in homosexual.

I challenge you to find modern (1980's to present) issues with the same implications, situations, or inuendo (even written by outted gay comic creators like Phil Jimenez) concerning Batman, Nightwing, Robin or any of the Bat-family. Hell, Jiminez's Wonder Woman, who should be a poster child for lesbianism (that whole growing up on an island of only women) had no implications or inuendo Diana herself was a lesbian... but I emplore you to prove me wrong!

People often go looking for things that aren't there (such as the case in this thread)... well, now I'm challenging ANYONE to find some modern stuff implying Batman's gay/bi or the implication of inappropriate things.

Go on... I DARE ya!

[Sean Whitmore]

People often go looking for things that aren't there (such as the case in this thread)... well, now I'm challenging ANYONE to find some modern stuff implying Batman's gay/bi or the implication of inappropriate things.

Go on... I DARE ya!


Ask and ye shall receive! (http://the-isb.blogspot.com/2005/11/where-they-went-wrong-superman-and.html) :p ;)


SEAN

[curefreak]

Ask and ye shall receive! (http://the-isb.blogspot.com/2005/11/where-they-went-wrong-superman-and.html) :p ;)


SEANi got nothin:mad:

[Deadpooligan]

I always figured based on panels shown above (and like ones on Superdickery), that Golden Age Batman had homosexual tendancies. It didn't make him any less of a hero though.

I think Batman became the swingin' bachelor either after Jason Todd's death or arcs after Dark Knight Returns.

[geordiesteve]

I think the title of the thread is a bit misleading, it suggests you can either be gay or a hero.

Personally, I think it's people looking for something that isn't there. Batman and Bruce Wayne are not gay. He was never created that way, and some of the comics from the past that have the word gay in, or scenes like Bruce and Dick sleeping in the same bed, were created in more innocent times. Analysing material from the past using today's eye is inappropriate, is not reflective of that period, and consequently will produce answers of no real worth.

After the latest Superman film two rumours came out I heard about. One claiming Superman was gay, the other that the new movie was written to mirror the life of Christ (coming back to life and leaving an empty bed, a saviour to humanity etc). It's more of the same, people reading into things and finding stuff that doesn't exist, they see want to see, through rose tinted glasses of their own need.

[Citizen V]

Batman is not gay,why is it that some people like to view heros differently.Do they want to see something that does not exist...

[jackups]

Batmans not gay just becasue of the 60's show!
which was nothing like the proper batman!
you could say spiderman was gay look at the tv show in the 70's!:D

[Sparda]

Batman was truly gay straight out during the Adam West years. After Frank miller he went straight and robin or nightwing stop wearing those tights and wore normal robin pants instead. There's your answer.

[jackups]

Yeah I lexcept that but he wasnt gay before adam west!

[Gargus]

Till I see a batman issue and he is plowing another guys butt I am going to have to go with a big no I dont think he is.

The whole mythos behind him being gay is just perpetuated by the readers trying to make something out of nothing and trying to analyze and disect something that isnt there. Its part of our culture now to do things like that, I guess a sort of self satisfaction to try and find things that arent there, maybe feel smarter in thinking we can wax intelligent about stupid things.

I mean come on, its a comic book charcter for gods sake, it isnt even real. Maybe if batman was a real person you could find something but it is a drawing and a concept. Till a writer actually says he is gay, he isnt. A comic charcter is nothing till a writer says he is something.

Besides, he has always had a thing for selina kyle/catwoman so he cant be gay. But now I guess people will start saying he is bi-sexual or repressing his homosexuality by pretending to himself he likes women. Or some other bullcrap idea.

[Jaye]

Now that this thing has been dredged up again, I changed the thread title to the posters first sentence. Makes a lot more sense.

[Violently Apathetic]

A comic charcter is nothing till a writer says he is something.


So by the same token until a writer comes out and says he is 100% straight then we can't say for sure that he is.

Basically I believe that for the most part Batman has been written under the pretense he is straight. Anything else if unintentional subtext or the writer's attempting to leave it ambiguous. I personally think that's the ideal situation, leaving it up to the fans to interpret his sexuality, if they feel it's at all important, however they wish. So long as people don't go around trying to impose their individual interpretation on others I don't see how it matters. If some fans see a hint of something else in Batman's relationship with Dick or Clark, more power to them, there is certainly enough wiggle room to make that argument if it's what you desire.

[MasterChef]

Well, the main arguement of people labelling Batman as being homosexual comes from his use of Robins, right? Yet if that were true, then Batman would be a pedophile, which is quite the opposite of being a hero. I doubt that this was the goal of the Golden Age writers.

[Torchbot]

Batman isn't gay because he has never been portrayed as gay. He has always been portrayed as a heterosexual and has had many relationships with females. His relationship with Dick, Jason (well, originally), and Tim has always been of the father/son variety.

Also, Adam West's Batman wasn't gay either. The '60s show was camp, purposefully silly, but not gay (and Bruce did have female love interests quite often on the show as well).

I have no problem with homosexuals or homosexual relationships, but I strongly disagree with changing a character into a homosexual to make some sort of political or ideological point. One's sexuality does define who you are (in part), and is just as much a part of someone's character as their gender. Why not suggest that Batman could work if he were a woman? Or Wonder Woman if she were a man? That is silly because the characters are defined partially by their gender, and yes, sexuality.

Besides, I don't see why our modern society can't seem to accept two men having a close relationship without them turning out gay. It's almost as though some people see men as either entirely homophobic and thus not wanting to show any sort of true connection with another male other than respect and the occassional handshake when straight, or as homosexuals. There's nothing wrong with men that are unrelated being close to one another, having a strong friendship, without being gay.

Oh look! Bruce and Tim hugged! They aren't related, so they must be gay! That's silly if you ask me.

[curefreak]

when will you people ever learn its joker thats gay !!!!!!(not that theres anything wrong with that)

[trickster]

when will you people ever learn its joker thats gay !!!!!!(not that theres anything wrong with that)

Hopefully never. Besides, other than wishful thinking, there is no proof that any of the characters lamers wished were gay really are. Well, I could see Wonder Woman being a lesbian, unless Amazons are into dildos :P

But then again maybe that's why he hates Batman so much, cos unrequited love hurts. But anyway, I particularly love the use of !!!!!

[curefreak]

Hopefully never. But then again maybe that's why he hates Batman so much. But anyway, I particularly love the use of !!!!!
when will you people pay attention? joker doesnt hate batman he loves him so much thats why he does all this crazy shite to get his attention (or maybe he wants one of them infamous bat- spankings) i mean think about it hes got this hot chick slobbering all over him and all he can think of is batman....his obsession with batman is like stalkerish levels really not to say that this makes him anymore sane but it explains a lot :)