By Ashley R. Lierman
The upcoming FOX Batman prequel show will feature the character Detective Renee Montoya, a Latina lesbian, as part of its principal cast, according to show creators. Montoya came out as a lesbian in the Batman comics in 2003, and co–executive producer Danny Cannon has affirmed the show’s commitment to include the character’s identity rather than espouse “out-of-date values.†Via PinkNews:
Victoria Cartagena, who will take on the recurring role of the detective, said: “Growing up, I rarely saw people of color or gay people depicted in a positive light, and I know when you don’t see yourself reflected in the world around you, it does things to your self-esteem.
“I know if I had seen a character like Renee on TV when I was younger — a Latina who is smart, powerful, and strong — it would’ve encouraged me to dream bigger.
“So I know what she means to people, and if watching me means that I can help someone else feel included, than that makes me very happy.â€
The show will premiere this fall, starting on September 22nd.
