Jenny Blake Isabella, the creator of DC Comics’ Black Lightning, has announced that she is trans. In a heartfelt post shared on her personal website, she addressed her fans, answered questions, and discussed her journey.  

While Isabella’s preferred name is Jenny, she stated that she doesn’t consider her former name, Tony Isabella, to be a deadname. She will continue to use both names professionally, particularly at events throughout the year. Isabella explained that she values the work she produced under the name Tony and feels it remains a significant part of her identity.  

Isabella, alongside artist Trevor Von Eeden, created Black Lightning in 1977. The series was groundbreaking as it featured DC Comics’ first black superhero to headline a series and is regarded as one of the earliest mainstream Black superheroes.  

Isabella also reflected on her experience attending her first hair appointment at the Green Opal Salon. Following the appointment, she posted on social media platform X, expressing how coming out was “one of the scariest things I have ever done.” However, she added that the love and support from her fanbase have been overwhelming and deeply appreciated. 

THINGS THAT MAKE ME HAPPY: 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. I’ll have more to say soon. For now…thank you. 2-9-25. pic.twitter.com/lKQejxRuWp

— Tony Isabella, Creator of Black Lightning (@thetonyisabella) February 10, 2025

In her post shared on Tuesday, February 11, Isabella delved into how she selected her new name. “I’ve always liked the name Jenny,” she wrote. “Blake comes from Marvel’s Doctor Don. Once a Marvel maniac, always a Marvel maniac.”  

Isabella also shared that DC Comics had offered to update her credits for any future reprints to reflect her new name, or leave them as Tony Isabella for past work while crediting Jenny for any future projects. 

Additionally, the Black Lightning creator revealed plans for a new comic series featuring a trans superhero. She described the character as a potential “contemporary Peter Parker for queer and straight kids alike” and expressed her excitement for the project. Isabella emphasised that she intends to retain creative control of the character and is seeking a fair publishing arrangement.