“Legendary Comic Writer Behind Black Lightning Comes Out as Trans at 73—And Fans Are Cheering!”
In a heartfelt and inspiring announcement, legendary comic book writer Jenny Blake Isabella, known for her groundbreaking work on Black Lightning and other iconic characters, has publicly come out as a transgender woman at the age of 73. The industry veteran, who helped shape some of the most beloved superheroes of the 20th century, shared her journey with fans through social media, receiving an outpouring of love and support.
A Courageous Announcement
Isabella first hinted at her news through a simple but powerful social media post: an image of a pink crown with the words, “Keep Calm and Yes, I’m Transgender.” A few days later, on February 11, she followed up with a heartfelt blog post, expressing gratitude for the support she had received. “I needed time to process my coming out in public and absorb the response I received from this announcement,” she wrote, sharing that she was “overwhelmed by the love and support” from friends, fans, and colleagues.
In another social media post on February 10, she admitted, “Coming out as transgender on my social media was one of the scariest things I have ever done. The love and support I was shown lifted my spirits and gave me hope.”
A Legacy in Comics
Born in 1951, Isabella’s love for comics led her to an editorial role at Marvel in 1972, where she contributed to some of the most iconic series of the era. Over the years, she worked on titles such as Ghost Rider, The Avengers, Daredevil, and Captain America. She co-created Misty Knight with artist Arvell Jones in 1975, a character who would go on to become a major figure in Marvel’s universe.
Isabella was also instrumental in redefining existing characters, co-developing the cat-like heroine Tigra with artist Don Perlin in 1974 and the towering hero Black Goliath with George Tuska in 1975. However, one of her most significant contributions came when she switched to DC Comics in 1977 and co-created Black Lightning with artist Trevor Von Eeden—the first Black superhero to headline his own DC series.
The impact of Black Lightning extended far beyond comics. The character was later adapted into a CW television series, featuring Nafessa Williams as Thunder, the first Black queer superhero on TV. Isabella’s influence on diverse and inclusive storytelling remains undeniable.
A New Chapter with a New Name
While Isabella has embraced her new name, she has clarified that she does not consider her birth name a “deadname” and will continue to use it professionally when appropriate. “For example, if I were to write another Black Lightning series, it would make sense on several levels, including commercial, for me to go with Tony,” she explained. “If I were to write a series starring his daughters, Jenny might be more appropriate.”
Her middle name, Blake, also carries a special meaning—it was inspired by Dr. Donald Blake, Thor’s original human alter ego in Marvel comics. For a writer who has spent her career crafting stories about heroes finding their true selves, the choice is fitting.
Looking to the Future
Rather than stepping back from the industry, Isabella is already looking ahead to new projects. In her blog post, she teased details about an upcoming creator-owned comic series, revealing that it will feature a new trans superhero. “I love her more every day. I think she can be a contemporary Peter Parker for queer and straight kids alike,” she said, hinting at a story that could resonate with a whole new generation of readers.
With her fearless storytelling and trailblazing legacy, Jenny Blake Isabella is once again proving that heroes don’t just exist in comics—they’re real, and they continue to inspire, no matter their age.
