What was the reaction on social media to your writing Iceman?

Social media is a funny thing. I was at this Pacific Pride conference with a roomful of beautiful, glorious queer youth kids. One of them asked me a question about social media and what do you do when you encounter bullying. I was certainly exposed to some of that with Iceman. It was not “chill.” It’s not cool when people use negative language to communicate a point or attack your body or your lifestyle to attack the work. I had to recalibrate what could filter through to my heart and my brain. I don’t let it bring me down. It’s not worth it for me to engage.

What is next for Iceman?

I’m really excited that we’re coming back with a new No. 1. This is going to be a great way to invite readers to celebrate with us. Iceman is going to be thinking about how he can help other people and use his mutant power to be the best he can be. He’s going to be up against some pretty big bad guys. In the first issue he’s preventing the next “Mutant Massacre” with Bishop, another X-Man.

We’re also going to see a lot of the previous cast but played out in different ways. Bobby’s relationship with his parents will not be as fraught. He reached a level of peace that you can get to — even with parents like his. We’re going to see his dating life. It’s just going to be such a breath of fresh air to see him really stretch his arms out and have fun.

You mentioned there would be some community outreach too.

The reason I love X-Men books is that they speak so much to people who identify as other. We’re going to be seeing Bobby trying to figure out how he can be a shining beacon to the gay community. That’s where me and Bobby Drake are alike: How do you take this platform and try to do something meaningful? That’s something I want all readers to think about: How can you make a difference in your world? I feel super proud of the story I’ve crafted with all those things in mind.

Which artists will you be working with?

For this arc, we have Nathan Stockman. He has this ability to do action and humor and drama, and it all blends perfectly with his style. He really understands what this book is and how, even though it is a funny character, it is a not a funny book. It’s an X-Men book: a lot of action and drama. I can let my imagination go wild and they’re able to do it. I draw comics too and I could not do half the stuff I assign these guys!