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Is Cole from Ninjago Gay? Exploring Queer Representation in Dragons Rising

Ninjago, the LEGO animated series that's captivated audiences for over a decade, has recently sparked a heated debate: is Cole, the Earth Ninja, gay? Specifically, the buzz centers around Ninjago: Dragons Rising, the latest iteration of the series, and Cole's relationship with a new character named Geo. But what's fueling this discussion, and what does it mean for representation in children's media? Let's dig in.

A History of Queerness in Ninjago

Believe it or not, this isn't the first time the topic of LGBTQ+ representation has surfaced in relation to Ninjago. While never explicitly stated, fans have long pointed to subtle cues and character dynamics that suggest a more inclusive world than initially meets the eye.

Remember Sally from "The Benefit of Grief"? Some interpret her storyline as an allegory for coming out, with her fear of parental disapproval mirroring the anxieties many LGBTQ+ individuals face. And what about Jay? Some fans have theorized that the lightning ninja could be bisexual, citing his open flirtatiousness with male characters. Whether these are intentional nods or simply fan interpretations, they highlight a desire for greater diversity within the Ninjago universe.

Cole and Geo: A Budding Romance?

Enter Dragons Rising. Cole finds himself forming a deep bond with Geo, a Munce with the power of Fusion. Their interactions are undeniably affectionate. They share a close living situation. They are raising two kids and a teenage skeleton together! The bond is so strong that Cole needs Geo's support to unlock his new rock monster powers (although, it seems Cole had the ability all along!). All this has led many viewers to interpret their relationship as romantic.

But is it canon? That's the million-dollar question. There's no explicit confirmation within the show itself. However, the head writer, Doc Wyatt, has fueled the flames by hinting at the possibility of a deeper connection between the two. 'We don't know. It's not confirmed if Geo and Cole like each other, but there also isn't any proof that they don't like each other.' Wyatt noted.

What the Show Says About Cole and Geo

The Controversy and Backlash

As with any discussion of LGBTQ+ representation, the Cole and Geo dynamic has been met with mixed reactions. Some fans are thrilled to see the possibility of a gay character in a popular children's series, praising the show for its inclusivity. Others, however, have expressed disapproval, even going so far as to start a petition against the perceived "gay agenda."

Why the backlash? Some argue that children's shows should remain "neutral" on matters of sexuality, while others express concerns about the perceived "sexualization" of cartoon characters. These arguments often stem from a place of fear or misunderstanding, overlooking the importance of representation for LGBTQ+ youth and the positive impact it can have on acceptance and understanding.

The Importance of Representation

So, why does it matter if Cole is gay? Why is this such a significant topic? Because representation matters. Seeing characters who reflect your own identity on screen can be incredibly validating, especially for young people who are still figuring themselves out. It sends the message that you are not alone, that you are seen, and that you are accepted.

Furthermore, LGBTQ+ representation in media can help to normalize queer identities and challenge harmful stereotypes. By portraying diverse characters with complex lives and relationships, shows like Ninjago can foster empathy and understanding among viewers of all backgrounds.

Is Cole Gay? The Verdict (For Now)

Ultimately, whether Cole is officially "gay" remains to be seen. The creators of Ninjago may choose to leave the relationship ambiguous, allowing fans to interpret it as they see fit. However, the fact that this conversation is happening at all is a testament to the growing demand for LGBTQ+ representation in media.

Whether Cole and Geo are destined for romance or remain close friends, their connection has opened up a dialogue about diversity and inclusion within the Ninjago fandom. And that, in itself, is a victory. What do you think? Does the show do enough to represent the LGBTQ+ community, or does it need to go further?

Moving Forward: More Representation?

Ninjago's journey towards inclusivity is ongoing. By embracing diverse characters and storylines, the show can continue to resonate with audiences of all backgrounds and promote a more accepting world for future generations. It will be interesting to see if Ninjago: Dragons Rising continues to explore these themes and provide even more overt representation in the future.