It has been confirmed that Elliot Page's Umbrella Academy character Vanya Hargreeves will come out as transgender and be known as Viktor Hargreeves in the Netflix show's upcoming third season.
After Page came out as trans in December 2020, it was announced that the actor would continue playing the role as before, with sources telling Variety at the time that there were no plans to change the character's gender.
However, it seems execs on the show have decided to honor 35-year-old Page's coming out by having the Canadian actor play a character that aligns with his own gender identity.
Variety now reports that Page's character will use he/him/his pronouns. And the streaming giant confirmed to A.V. Club that the character "will come out as transgender in season three and be henceforth known as 'Viktor Hargreeves.'"
Page shared the news in a post on Twitter, stating that his character's new name on the show is Viktor Hargreeves. His post included a still with him in character as Viktor.
Netflix confirmed the name change too, writing: "Welcome to the family, Viktor — we’re so happy you’re here."
The character also received a warm welcome by the streamer's LGBTQ+ Twitter account, @Most.
The account shared: "FEELS SO GOOD TO SAY THIS: Elliot Page stars as Viktor Hargreeves in Umbrella Academy S3!!!"
In a profile for Time magazine in March 2021, it was revealed that Page's full name had been changed in the series' credits. It was also explained that the cast and crew noticed a positive change in the Oscar-nominated actor's demeanor since coming out as trans.
"It seems like there’s a tremendous weight off his shoulders, a feeling of comfort," The Umbrella Academy's showrunner Steve Blackman shared with the magazine. "There’s a lightness, a lot more smiling."
In December 2020, the Juno star took to social media to share with his fans that he is trans and his pronouns are he/they.
He wrote at the time: "I can’t begin to express how remarkable it feels to finally love who I am enough to pursue my authentic self.
"I’ve been endlessly inspired by so many in the trans community. Thank you for your courage, your generosity and ceaselessly working to make this world a more inclusive and compassionate place. I will offer whatever support I can and continue to strive for a more loving and equal society."
You can expect the new season of The Umbrella Academy to arrive on Netflix on June 22, 2022.