Loki director responds to Russell T Davies’ criticism of the show’s ‘pathetic’ LGBTQ representation
Kate Herron is defending the show's representation saying, "I’m very proud of what we did".
Words: Alastair James; pictures: Instagram/@herronthatkate and Markus Bidaux
Loki director, Kate Herron, has fired back at Queer as Folk creator, Russell T Davies over his comments regarding the “pathetic” display of Loki’s bisexuality in the Disney+ show.
Following the reveal mid-way through the first season of Loki that the titular character was canonically bisexual (as he is in the Marvel comics) the show was praised by many for recognising that aspect of the character.
However, Davies, who’s gifted us series such as QAF, Cucumber/Banana/Tofu, and It’s A Sin was among those calling out the show’s minimal representation.
“He has a right to his opinion”
The scene in question sees Tom Hiddleston’s God of Mischief admit he likes “a bit of both” when it comes to princes and princesses during a discussion with an alternate variant of himself.
In a Q&A with Swansea University last July, Davies said of the moment: “It’s like one word! He said the word ‘prince’. And we’re meant to go ‘thank you, Disney, aren’t you marvellous’. It’s pathetic!
“It’s a ridiculous, craven, feeble gesture towards the vital politics of the stories that should be told. So, they will damn us with their condescension in the end. So that’s my worry now,” he added.
Now, in an interview with Variety, Herron, who is queer, responded to Russell’s comments.
“I don’t disagree that there should be bigger stories being told, but — and I think he has a right to his opinion — I’m very proud of what we did in the show. Russell is a hero of mine, but like I’ve said, I hope that we did at least open the door and that more stories will come.”
Herron again confirmed that she won’t be returning for the second season of Loki revealing there had been a discussion with the execs at Marvel but she decided it wasn’t for her ultimately.
Addressing his character’s sexuality recently, actor Tom Hiddleston said he wanted the references to be “meaningful”.
Speaking to The Guardian, the actor, 41, added: “It was a small step, and there’s further to go. But it was definitely important to all of us.”
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