The Gender-Bending Nature of Lucifer Morningstar in 'The Sandman' and 'Lucifer' TV Series

Neat Gaiman's The Sandman and the TV adaptation of Lucifer both offer compelling explorations of gender and identity. Neil Gaiman's original work primarily focuses on a character who is inherently ambiguous and transcending conventional gender roles. This article delves into the portrayal of Lucifer Morningstar as a gender-bending figure, considering his ambiguities and the challenges in translating these complexities to a visual medium.

Gender Fluidity in The Sandman

Neil Gaiman's The Sandman introduces Lucifer Morningstar as a character whose identity can be mutable, defying traditional gender norms. This ambiguity is central to the character's appeal and complexity. In the comic, Lucifer can take on various forms, and his appearance during specific scenes can be influenced by the narrative context. For example, during battles or moments of intensity, Lucifer might adopt a female appearance. Despite this, his gender-fluid nature is explicitly acknowledged as a characteristic of cosmic/supernatural entities; they are sexless and gender-neutral, not bound by human gender norms.

The TV Series 'Lucifer'

The TV adaptation of The Sandman and the popular series Lucifer present their own interpretations of this character. In the TV series Lucifer, which is loosely based on The Sandman, Lucifer's portrayal is designed to be more visually consistent and relatable for a broader audience. Here, Lucifer is played by a male actor, Tom Ellis, who is given a more masculine appearance. However, this choice is not arbitrary; it is driven by the narrative requirements of a television series that needs to be engaging for a wider audience.

Why the focus on a male actor for a character that is inherently gender-bending? According to the creators, this decision was made to ensure the character's appeal to a mass audience. The character of Lucifer could be too nuance for a male actor with consistent facial features. The idea of Tom Ellis being as featureless as a Ken doll between the legs would likely confuse viewers, making the choice of a male actor with a distinct look a strategic one for the show's success.

Beyond Physical Appearance: The Essence of Lucifer

Considering the character's origins in Gaiman's work, we must remember that Lucifer's essence transcends the physical. In the comic, Lucifer is described as an androgynous, genderless entity who is older than humanity itself. He draws inspiration from David Bowie, a singer known for his androgynous style. Despite later depictions that move towards a more masculine appearance, the fundamental nature of Lucifer remains ambiguous and beyond human norms.

Bowie, with his androgynous style, provided a compelling reference point for Gaiman. This figure, who was able to effortlessly navigate gender boundaries, allowed Gaiman to explore a character who is not bound by the conventions of gender. Lucifer, just like Bowie, is a figure who can reject traditional norms and exist in a space between male and female, resonating with a contemporary audience that appreciates complexity and nuance.

Conclusion

The character of Lucifer Morningstar, whether in the pages of The Sandman or in the television series Lucifer, offers a rich tapestry of gender fluidity and identity. While the TV series may have made certain narrative choices to make the character more accessible, the broader concept of gender-bending remains a cornerstone of the original work. Neil Gaiman's exploration of such themes continues to resonate with contemporary audiences, who are increasingly seeking complex and nuanced representations of characters in media.