'Shazam! Fury of the Gods' Reveals this Character will be Gayer in the Upcoming Sequel

"Shazam!" is bringing more queer representation to the big screen in its upcoming superhero sequel, "SHAZAM! Fury of the Gods," reported Comic Book Movie.

According to writer Henry Gayden, Shazam Family member Pedro Peña, played by Jovan Armand and D. J. Cotrona, will be openly gay in the next film.

In an interview with Dorkaholics, Gayden confirmed that the character was always thought to be gay in the first film. But the next film will bring that aspect of his persona out more.

"The only new addition for [Fury of the Gods] is being a lot more forthright about Pedro being gay," he explained. "And that was hinted at in the first movie very subtly."

He added, "And I thought it was really important and really, really fought for us including that and bringing that to the fore in this movie."

Although it is unclear how exactly the film will reference Pedro's sexuality, its an exciting step in the right direction for superhero fans who feel that superhero movies often lack LGBTQ representation.

Pedro is one of the strongest members of the Shazam Family, so to have him be more open about his sexuality would send a big message about how queer characters can be portrayed on screen.

"Shazam! Fury of the Gods" will continue with the story of teenage Billy Batson "who, upon reciting the magic word 'SHAZAM!,' is transformed into his adult Super Hero alter ego, Shazam," reports Comic Book Movie.

Using the powers of the gods, Batson and his fellow foster kids must juggle adult responsibilities with teenage angst.

"But when the Daughters of Atlas, a vengeful trio of ancient gods, arrive on Earth in search of the magic stolen from them long ago, Billy - aka Shazam - and his family are thrust into a battle for their superpowers, their lives, and the fate of their world," reports Comic Book Movie.

Look for "Shazam! Fury of the Gods" to be released on March 17, 2023.