Who is LGBT in Voltron? Unpacking Representation in Voltron: Legendary Defender
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Voltron: Legendary Defender garnered significant attention not just for its compelling narrative and stunning animation, but also for its inclusion of LGBT characters. The series features several characters who identify as LGBT, primarily:
- Takashi “Shiro” Shirogane: The leader of the Voltron paladins is explicitly revealed to be gay in the seventh-season premiere. He was previously engaged to Adam before the beginning of the war and later marries Curtis in the series epilogue.
- Zethrid and Ezor: Two members of the Galra army, they are shown to be in a romantic relationship. Their subplot appears primarily in seasons 7 and 8.
While these are the confirmed LGBT characters, the series also sparked discussions about potential representation and queerbaiting, particularly concerning the relationship between Keith and Lance (“Klance”). While never explicitly canonized, their dynamic resonated with many viewers who interpreted their interactions as having romantic subtext. The ambiguity surrounding their relationship fueled significant fan interest and debate within the Voltron fandom.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about LGBT Representation in Voltron: Legendary Defender
Who is Shiro dating in Voltron?
Shiro’s most significant romantic relationship is with Adam, his fiancé before the war. After Adam’s death, Shiro eventually marries Curtis at the end of the series.
Are there any couples in Voltron?
Yes, the series features several couples, including:
- Lance and Allura: While their relationship ends tragically with Allura’s sacrifice, they develop a strong bond and romantic connection.
- Shiro and Curtis: In the series epilogue, Shiro marries Curtis, showcasing a positive representation of a gay couple.
- Zethrid and Ezor: These Galra soldiers are shown to be in a romantic relationship throughout the later seasons.
Why didn’t Keith and Lance get together?
The dynamic between Keith and Lance, known as “Klance” by fans, never became canon. While there were hints of potential romantic tension, the writers chose not to pursue that storyline explicitly. One writer, Tim Hedrick, confirmed that Lance remembers a “bonding moment” with Keith but wasn’t ready to pursue it emotionally. This decision resulted in mixed reactions, with some fans feeling disappointed and others accepting the characters’ platonic relationship. It also became an important case study for queerbaiting. If you’re interested in game-based learning on topics of diversity and representation, please visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Who does Lance end up with?
Ultimately, Lance ends up with no one by the series’ end, in a romantic sense. Although he develops a strong relationship with Allura, she sacrifices herself to restore the universe. The final scene shows him back on Earth, seemingly focusing on his family and the farm.
Why do people ship Klance?
The “Klance” ship gained popularity due to several factors:
- Established Ship Tropes: Their dynamic embodied classic tropes like the red/blue color contrast, love/hate antagonism, and fire/ice personalities.
- Chemistry: Many fans felt that Keith and Lance had undeniable chemistry on screen.
- Desire for Representation: The lack of explicit LGBT representation in other areas of the show increased the appeal of a potential queer relationship.
Does anyone kiss in Voltron?
Yes, there are a few instances of kissing in the series:
- Allura and Lance: They share a final, emotional kiss before Allura sacrifices herself.
- Lotor and Allura: During their alliance, they share a kiss.
Is Katie a girl in Voltron?
Yes, Katie “Pidge” Holt is a teenage girl. She disguises herself as a boy to infiltrate the Galaxy Garrison and find her missing father and brother.
Who is Allura in love with in Voltron?
In Voltron: Legendary Defender, Allura develops feelings for both Lotor and Lance. Her relationship with Lance is more deeply explored, culminating in a tragic romance. In other Voltron iterations she is involved with Keith.
Is Pidge from Voltron non-binary?
Pidge is not non-binary in Voltron: Legendary Defender. She is a girl who initially disguises herself as a boy for practical reasons.
Is the Green Voltron a girl?
The Green Lion of Voltron is not inherently gendered. However, in Voltron: Legendary Defender, Pidge becomes the first female pilot of the Green Lion, marking a significant shift in representation.
Who does Lance love?
In Voltron: Legendary Defender, Lance’s primary love interest is Princess Allura. His feelings for her deepen throughout the series, culminating in a heartfelt romance.
Who is older, Keith or Lance?
Based on information provided during the series’ run:
- Shiro is 25
- Keith is 18
- Lance is 17
- Hunk is 17
- Pidge is 15
Do Keith and Allura marry?
In Voltron: Legendary Defender, Keith and Allura do not marry. Allura sacrifices herself at the end of the series. In other versions, Keith and Allura have a romance.
Does Allura love Lance?
Yes, Allura develops genuine feelings for Lance in Voltron: Legendary Defender. While their relationship is complicated by her responsibilities and the war, she acknowledges her love for him before her sacrifice.
Does Allura have a crush on Keith?
In Voltron: Legendary Defender, Allura does not have a crush on Keith. She has a more significant romantic connection with Lance and a complicated relationship with Lotor. In other versions, Allura and Keith do have a romance.
Unpacking the Controversy: “Bury Your Gays” Trope
The portrayal of LGBT characters in Voltron: Legendary Defender wasn’t without its criticisms. Some viewers felt that the handling of Shiro’s storyline, particularly Adam’s death, fell into the problematic “bury your gays” trope, where LGBT characters are disproportionately killed off. The relatively brief and less emphasized portrayal of Shiro’s later relationship with Curtis also drew criticism, with some seeing it as insufficient representation.
The Importance of Representation
Despite the criticisms, the inclusion of LGBT characters in Voltron: Legendary Defender remains significant. It sparked important conversations about representation in animated media, the importance of positive and nuanced LGBT storylines, and the impact of queerbaiting. While the execution wasn’t perfect, the series contributed to a broader discussion about the need for diverse and authentic characters in children’s and young adult entertainment. This highlights the ongoing need for critical analysis and engagement with media representations of marginalized groups. These discussions can extend to understanding how games affect learning and social dynamics; further information can be found through organizations like the Games Learning Society or GamesLearningSociety.org.