In the latest Disney movie ‘The Marvels,’ a significant scene hinting at a romantic relationship between two iconic female superheroes, Carol Danvers (Captain Marvel) and Valkyrie, was reportedly removed. Fans had speculated about the nature of their relationship, particularly after a scene where Valkyrie, portrayed by Tessa Thompson, gives Carol Danvers, played by Brie Larson, a kiss on the cheek.
The Cut Scene
According to the entertainment social media page Can We Get Some Toast, a scene in ‘The Marvels’ explicitly acknowledged the duo’s past romantic involvement but concluded that they “work better as friends.” This revelation, had it remained in the film, would have been a significant nod to Valkyrie’s bisexuality and a milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in superhero cinema.
Fan Reactions
The fandom’s reaction to the deleted scene has been one of disappointment and frustration. Fans, who have long been advocating for a romance between Valkyrie and Carol Danvers, were upset to learn about the scene’s removal. The call for Disney to release an extended cut of the film underscores the growing demand for more diverse and inclusive representation in mainstream media.
A History of Excluded LGBTQ+ Content
This is not the first instance of Marvel sidelining explicit references to Valkyrie’s bisexuality. Director Taika Waititi revealed that a similar scene in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ (2017) was also cut. The scene was intended to subtly indicate Valkyrie’s sexuality but was removed after it reportedly confused test audiences.
Actors’ Support for the Relationship
Brie Larson and Tessa Thompson, who portray Carol Danvers and Valkyrie respectively, have both shown support for their characters’ romantic pairing. Larson once expressed her enduring affection for the ship on social media, while Thompson indicated she would welcome a romantic storyline between the two.
Reflecting on LGBTQ+ Representation
The exclusion of this scene from ‘The Marvels’ highlights ongoing challenges in LGBTQ+ representation within major film franchises. As audiences and actors alike call for more diverse storytelling, the demand for inclusive and authentic representation of LGBTQ+ relationships in cinema continues to grow. ‘The Marvels’, currently in cinemas, represents both progress and missed opportunities in this regard.