Avatar: Seven Havens introduces gay couple Jae and Datu in new LGBTQ+ storyline

Avatar: Seven Havens has introduced a gay couple to the animated franchise, with airbender Jae shown reuniting with his boyfriend, Datu, in an affectionate scene that has attracted attention from LGBTQ+ viewers. The characters' relationship is established in the new Paramount+ series, giving gay representation a place in the latest chapter of the fantasy universe.

Jae is voiced by Major Curda and appears alongside Pavi, the young Earthbender who discovers she is the next Avatar, and her twin sister Nisha. Datu's introduction provides a glimpse of Jae's life beyond his role in the wider adventure, allowing the relationship to form part of the show's world rather than existing only as fan speculation.

Who are Jae and Datu in Avatar: Seven Havens?

The couple's relationship is made clear when Datu runs towards Jae and embraces him. The scene includes an affectionate goodbye kiss on the cheek, offering viewers a direct confirmation of their connection without turning the moment into a lengthy explanation of their sexuality.

That straightforward approach is important for representation in animation, particularly in a major fantasy franchise with a long-established international audience. LGBTQ+ characters can be part of an adventure's wider ensemble while their relationships receive the same natural treatment given to other characters.

The franchise has already prompted discussion about same-sex relationships through Korra and Asami in The Legend of Korra. Their relationship became an important part of the series' legacy for many LGBTQ+ viewers, and Jae and Datu provide another example of a same-sex couple appearing in the animated Avatar universe.

Avatar: Seven Havens renewed for two more books

The relationship has arrived during a significant period for the franchise. Paramount+ confirmed at New York Comic Con that Avatar: Seven Havens had been renewed for Books 3 and 4, extending the story beyond its initial run and giving the creative team more time to develop its characters.

The series follows Pavi as she attempts to understand her role as the new Avatar in a world transformed by catastrophe. Alongside Nisha, she faces dangers from humans and spirits while uncovering the mystery of their origins and the circumstances that have shaped the Seven Havens.

The renewal is a separate development from Jae and Datu's introduction, and no specific future storyline for the couple has been announced. However, the additional books provide more room for the series to explore its wider cast as Pavi's journey progresses.

Watch the trailer here:

Why the couple matters to LGBTQ+ viewers

Representation can be meaningful when gay characters are allowed to exist as part of a story without their identity becoming their only defining characteristic. Jae and Datu's relationship is introduced through a personal moment, while the wider series continues to focus on adventure, family and the challenges facing the next Avatar.

The response also shows the interest that LGBTQ+ viewers have in seeing same-sex relationships included in established entertainment franchises. As Avatar: Seven Havens develops, Jae and Datu have already given fans another relationship to discuss within a universe that has inspired audiences across generations.