Cartoon Network reveals a major Steven Universe character is intersex and non-binary
One of the main characters in Steven Universe has been revealed to be non-binary and intersex (Cartoon Network)
Cartoon Network has revealed that a major character in the Steven Universe animated series is intersex and non-binary.
In a video posted on the children’s TV network’s Instagram page, main character Stevonnie opens up their own Instagram account while talking about the positive and negative aspects of social media.
Stevonnie’s bio is displayed momentarily on screen and reads: “I am an experience. Intersex, non-binary, they/them.”
The Cartoon Network show’s groundbreaking depiction of queer identities has won praise from many — even as the programme has faced repeated censorship around the world over its LGBTQ content.
“I am an experience. Intersex, non-binary, they/them.” (Instagram/Cartoon Network)
Last year, the show’s creator Rebecca Sugar has come out as non-binary.
The 32-year-old has repeatedly earned praise for their portrayal of LGBT+ characters like lesbians Ruby and Sapphire — and now Stevonnie.
Speaking in 2016, Sugar said: “You can’t wait until kids have grown up to let them know that queer people exist.
“There’s this idea that that is something that should only be discussed with adults — that is completely wrong. If you wait to tell queer youth that it matters how they feel or that they are even a person, then it’s going to be too late!”
They also pointed out that Disney films have featured romantic themes and heteronormative love from a young age.
“I think a lot about fairy tales and Disney movies and the way that love is something that’s always discussed with children.
“I loved Disney movies when I was little, but I didn’t really feel like they were me, ever” (Jason Kempin/Getty)
“You’re told that you should dream about love, about this fulfilling love that you’re going to have.
“The prince and Snow White aren’t someone’s parents, they’re someone you wanna be.
“You’re sort of dreaming about a future where you will find happiness. Why shouldn’t everyone that?
“I loved Disney movies when I was little, but I didn’t really feel like they were me, ever.”
