LGBTQ+ representation in media has often been subtle, especially in the past. In the 1980s, cartoons like He-Man and the Masters of the Universe and She-Ra: Princess of Power became iconic, not just for their action-packed adventures, but also for the underlying themes that resonated with many in the LGBTQ+ community.
The Hidden Queer Subtext of He-Man
Fans have long speculated about Prince Adam, who transforms into the mighty He-Man. Known for his pink attire and gentle demeanor, many artists and creators have remarked on the playful discussion around his character possibly being gay. David Mason Choplecki, a queer artist, humorously noted that Prince Adam gains "fabulous secret powers" with the magic of his sword. This playful ambiguity, shared among the creators, added a layer of depth and representation that many queer viewers found relatable.
Erika Scheimer, who worked at Filmation Associates, the studio behind these shows, confirmed that the creative team indeed had fun with these interpretations. She shared that it was a known "joke in the studio" that Prince Adam was gay, but this was not an expression of homophobia. Rather, it was a reflection of the inclusive environment at Filmation, where many artists were happy to see themselves represented, even if subtly, in their work.
Voicing Inclusivity: Erika Scheimer's Contribution
Erika Scheimer, daughter of Filmation co-founder Lou Scheimer, played a significant role in these productions. She provided voices for many characters and was the voice director for both He-Man and She-Ra. Her voice, delivering the moral lessons at the end of She-Ra episodes, became iconic. As an out lesbian, Erika described Filmation as a "wonderful stomping ground of life," teeming with diverse characters, many of whom were part of the LGBTQ+ community.
In an interview, Erika fondly recalled the studio as "one of the gayest places in town," where creativity flowed freely without shame or prejudice. This open and accepting environment allowed her to embrace her own identity from a young age, noting that by age twelve, she was aware of her attraction to both girls and boys.
The Impact of Filmation's Environment
The culture at Filmation, fostered by her father Lou Scheimer, emphasized honesty and acceptance. Erika noted how her father's open-minded nature and affection for everyone created a unique space where LGBTQ+ individuals thrived. This atmosphere translated into the shows themselves, which became beloved in queer communities for their themes of empowerment and diversity.
Erika expressed that if She-Ra were made today, she would advocate for openly queer characters, a sentiment that aligns with the modern adaptation by ND Stevenson. The 2018 Netflix reboot of She-Ra was praised for its representation, featuring a prominent romance between Adora (She-Ra's alter ego) and Catra. The show was groundbreaking in its portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships, setting a new standard for children's programming.
Legacy of Queer Representation in Animation
Although Filmation closed its doors in 1989, the legacy of Erika Scheimer and her colleagues endures. Their influence is evident in today's landscape of animated shows that celebrate LGBTQ+ identities, such as Steven Universe and OK K.O.! Let's Be Heroes. While the original He-Man and She-Ra couldn't explicitly depict queer characters, the groundwork they laid has paved the way for a more inclusive and diverse future in animation.
Erika Scheimer's journey and her contributions to a beloved era of cartoons remind us of the importance of visibility and acceptance. Her story and the environment at Filmation continue to inspire new generations of creators to embrace diversity and tell stories that resonate with all audiences.
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