“Steven Universe,” a show known for its vibrant animation and compelling storytelling, ventured where few Cartoon Network shows had gone. It drew deep influences from anime, with series creator Rebecca Sugar taking inspiration from anime classics like “Future Boy Conan,” “Dragon Ball,” “Sailor Moon,” and particularly “Revolutionary Girl Utena.” The latter greatly shaped the groundbreaking aspects of “Steven Universe,” including its storytelling rhythm, emotional depth, and its challenge to conventional gender norms within the medium.
At its core, “Steven Universe” was revolutionary in its exploration of gender. Steven, the titular character, was depicted in a way that diverged from standard masculine tropes found in animation, often showing him as a figure who openly expressed his emotions. The series also featured a landmark portrayal of LGBTQ characters and relationships, a rarity in the realm of children’s animation. The presence of characters like Stevonnie—a fusion of Steven and his friend Connie— was symbolic of gender fluidity, and the lesbian relationship between Ruby and Sapphire broke new ground in queer representation on TV. This was a bold move by the network, considering that “The Legend of Korra” could only suggest a gay couple implicitly just a year earlier due to restrictions from Nickelodeon.
The influence of “Steven Universe” is widespread, with ND Stevenson, the creator of “Nimona,” acknowledging it as a trailblazer that enabled series like “She-Ra and the Princesses of Power” to include queer characters and relationships. As Stevenson recounted in an interview with Paper Magazine, it was “Steven Universe” that had led the way for such inclusive storytelling in the animation landscape. The success and impact of “Steven Universe” suggest a promising trajectory for more inclusive and progressive animated series in the years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What influence did anime have on “Steven Universe”?
Anime had a significant influence on “Steven Universe,” particularly in its visual style, themes, and narrative structure. The creator, Rebecca Sugar, drew inspiration from anime suchemichas “Future Boy Conan,” “Dragon Ball,” and “Revolutionary Girl Utena.”
What gender norms does “Steven Universe” challenge?
“Steven Universe” challenges gender norms by presenting a male protagonist, Steven, who is comfortable expressing his emotions and a group of strong female characters. The show also includes non-binary representation with characters like Stevonnie and an openly gay couple with Ruby and Sapphire.
Did “Steven Universe” impact the representation of queer characters in animation?
Yes, “Steven Universe” played a crucial role in the representation of queer characters and relationships in animation. Its introduction of LGBTQ themes and characters paved the way for other animated series to include diverse and inclusive representations more openly.
How did “Steven Universe” compare to “The Legend of Korra” in terms of LGBTQ representation?
While “The Legend of Korra” featured a gay couple in a more implicit manner due to limitations set by Nickelodeon, “Steven Universe” was able to present its LGBTQ characters and relationships in a more direct and explicit way, making a stronger impact in terms of queer visibility on children’s TV.