Russell Tovey Plays Gay Superhero The Ray In Upcoming CW Crossover Event

The CW loves airing crossover episodes that include its multiple superhero-centered series. As if that wasn't enough to set the network aside from its competitors, an upcoming crossover event is going to feature an openly gay superhero played by openly gay actor Russell Tovey.

The Ray, which is the character the British hunk plays in the upcoming Crisis On Earth X series, has a pretty sad storyline, so don't expect any cliché shirtless scenes. The Ray has the ability to manipulate light and lives on an alternate Earth where the Nazis won WWII. Not the coolest background to have, but the fact that the superhero is openly gay, even while stuck in a concentration camp, is a pretty big deal. 

Before this, Tovey was known most for his role as werewolf George Sands in the BBC's supernatural series Being Human.

Since the series, which will be a total of four hours long over a two-night run, is a crossover, it will span The CW’s four DC shows: The Flash, Supergirl, Legends Of Tomorrow and Arrow. Tovey will also voice the same character in its own animated series, Freedom Fighters: The Ray, on the CW's streaming service next month.