Klaus is a fictional character from the popular Netflix series The Umbrella Academy. Though Klaus is referred to with he/him pronouns in the show, some fans have theorized that Klaus may actually be non-binary or genderfluid based on certain clues in his characterization. Let’s take a closer look at the evidence around Klaus’ gender identity and what it might tell us.
Background on Klaus
First, a quick refresher on Klaus as a character. Klaus was born as Number Four in the Umbrella Academy, a group of adopted superpowered children. Klaus has the power to communicate with the dead, though he finds this ability deeply troubling and tries to suppress it through drug use. Klaus struggles with addiction throughout the show. He is portrayed as the troubled wildcard of the family, with a flamboyant, freewheeling personality.
Klaus often dresses in an androgynous or feminine manner, wearing floral pants, fur coats, colorful scarves, and knee-high boots. He applies eyeliner and other cosmetics. These fashion choices set Klaus apart from his brothers in the academy and suggest he does not adhere to traditional gender norms.
Evidence for Klaus Being Non-Binary
There are a few contextual clues that suggest Klaus may identify outside the gender binary:
– Klaus’ gender expression is very fluid and unconventional. His eclectic fashion blends femininity and masculinity.
– In season 1 when Klaus is transported back to the Vietnam War, he wears a dress and poses as a woman soldier’s wife. He does not seem uncomfortable with this feminine presentation and impersonation.
– When introduced to Klaus’ love interest Dave in season 2, Dave refers to Klaus as both his “guy” and his “beautiful lady.” Klaus seems fine with both masculine and feminine terms.
– Klaus often refers to himself with nicknames like “Klaus-cita” and “Klancey” that have feminine associations.
– His flamboyant personality and rejection of traditional masculinity norms align more closely with queer coding and expression.
Counter Evidence
However, there are also some indications that complicate viewing Klaus as non-binary:
– Klaus is consistently referred to with he/him pronouns by other characters.
– There are no definitive statements about Klaus identifying as non-binary in the show’s dialogue.
– Cross-dressing and gender nonconformity do not necessarily equate to a non-binary identity. Klaus may simply have a flexible gender expression.
– The 1960s Vietnam War setting of season 2 lacked modern language around non-binary identities, so Klaus may not have had the vocabulary to articulate his identity.
Interpretations from the Showrunners
The showrunners behind The Umbrella Academy have shared some insights about how they view and intend Klaus’ identity:
In an interview with DigitalSpy in 2019, showrunner Steve Blackman stated:
“Klaus himself doesn’t specifically attach any labels to his own sexuality or gender identity on the show, but he is a character who defies labels and exists outside of binaries. We think of him as gender fluid.”
Blackman’s comments suggest the show purposefully depicts Klaus as operating beyond gender constraints, though does not outright claim he is non-binary.
Series creator Gerard Way has not directly addressed Klaus’ gender identity, but said he appreciates fans interpreting the character in their own way.
Perspective from Actor Robert Sheehan
Robert Sheehan, the actor who plays Klaus, shared his perspective in a 2020 interview with Netflux:
“Klaus is the sort of character who defies labels and exists outside of the binaries imposed by society. I’ve always just thought of him as free and fluid. His gender expression comes from a place of freedom, not wanting to be confined or defined in any way.”
Sheehan emphasizes Klaus’ rejection of labels and fluidity, rather than specifically reading him as non-binary. He seems to view Klaus as transcending gender constraints entirely.
Analysis from Fans and Critics
Many fans and critics have interpreted Klaus as non-binary or genderfluid:
– In a 2019 article, the LGBTQ site Queerty stated: “Though never explicitly labeled, Klaus’ gender fluidity has clearly been depicted on screen.”
– Essays on media sites like The Mary Sue and Collider have celebrated Klaus as a rare example of non-binary representation in mainstream television.
– On social media, fans often refer to Klaus with they/them pronouns and see him as a non-binary icon.
However, other fans argue there is too little canonical textual evidence to definitively claim Klaus as non-binary representation:
– Some fans argue that assuming a gender nonconforming character is non-binary contributes to stereotypes and erasure.
– Without direct confirmation of how Klaus identifies, some feel it’s best not to project an identity onto him.
– Pushing for non-binary recognition of every gender nonconforming character may flatten diverse expressions of gender.
Conclusion
There is compelling interpretive evidence from Klaus’ characterization, showrunner comments, and fan analyses that point to Klaus being non-binary or genderfluid. However, there lacks definitive proof within the text of The Umbrella Academy to say this conclusively.
Klaus exists in an ambiguous space where he resists labels and expresses fluidity in his actions, appearance, and relationships. It is reductive to force him into an identity without textual confirmation. Ultimately, the show leaves Klaus’ gender open to interpretation.
He can be viewed as non-binary representation by some fans who relate to his characterization. But others may view him as simply gender nonconforming while identifying as a cisgender man. Both readings are valid. Klaus reflects the complex nature of gender identity and expression.