Asexuality is not a well-known and accepted identity, and as a result, we are very underrepresented in the media. Even with the small amount of representation that there is, many portrayals are inaccurate, or even offensive. Despite this, there are a few canonically asexual characters that have resonated with people:
Todd Chavez, Bojack Horseman
In the fourth season, Todd comes out as asexual to his friend, Bojack. Going forward in the series, Todd meets other people who identify as asexual and gains more of an understanding of what asexuality means to him. The development of his understanding and self-acceptance portrays an accurate journey that many asexual people can relate to.
Jughead Jones, Jughead Volume 1
In sharp contrast to The CW’s Riverdale, Jughead is openly asexual in the comics. Throughout the comics, Jughead expresses his confusion regarding attraction and shows disinterest in relationships. When the writers of Riverdale changed his sexuality for the series, many fans were outraged because the lack of representation felt like a missed opportunity.
Felicity Jones, The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue & The Lady’s Guide to Petticoats and Piracy
While Felicity Montague never uses the term ‘asexual’ when referring to her identity, she makes it clear that she is, in fact, both aromantic and asexual. Throughout both books, she often discusses the unexciting qualities that she observes in relationships. Rather than finding a man and settling down, Felicity choses to spend her time studying and learning about the world.
11th Doctor, Doctor Who
While The Doctor never directly says that he is asexual in the series, his actor, Matt Smith, has previously discussed how the 11th Doctor is asexual, explaining that he has other priorities and interests. To the 11th Doctor, his asexuality is manifested by his confusion about romantic relationships and all of the things that are labeled as ‘sexy.’
Aziraphale and Crowley, Good Omens
Good Omens author, Neil Gaiman, has discussed how these characters are both asexual and are in an asexual relationship. This is true of both the book and the series. While the characters are asexual, it is also very clear that they are in love. Aziraphale and Crowley may be in an asexual relationship, but they demonstrate how much they care for each other in other ways.
As these are only a few of the canonically asexual characters in media, it is easy to see the lack of good-quality representation. As an asexual person, I would find it inspiring to see the multifaceted aspects of asexuality represented in media, and how everyone’s experiences are different. Not only would this help asexual people accept themselves, but it would help others to understand that asexuality is a valid orientation. Right now, the good news is that people are learning about the LGBTQ+ community! As people continue to spread awareness, there will be more asexual characters. This is just the beginning.
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