With the second season of Black Lightning, Thunder continues to break new ground. Our first Black lesbian superhero begins to question her father’s definition of right and wrong, finds her own footing as an independent young woman, and – to our delight here at AfterEllen – continues to explore her sexuality in new ways. Anissa Pierce grows as a character, and we are so here for it.
As Anissa herself says, “I love watching a woman kick ass.” And that’s exactly what this new season of Black Lightning brings, with Jennifer learning to control her powers and Anissa – in a surprise twist – turning vigilante.
She leaves behind Thunder’s costume, instantly recognizable across Freeland and social media, for a black hoodie and mask. As Black Bird Anissa goes full Robin Hood. She takes money from the 100, a local cartel, to save the free clinic that is in danger of closing. To Anissa, it’s a kind of reparations – for many people in her community, the clinic is the only form of healthcare they can afford.
To Jefferson, this is stealing. And it’s not their only point of conflict. As Thunder begins playing to the crowd, we see that she still has things to learn from Black Lightning about sustainable superhero life. For all their arguments, Anissa is more like Jefferson than either of them realizes. As Lynn pointed out, her husband was once a young hothead who used his newly discovered superpowers to take the law into his own hands. And in her role as big sister, Anissa echoes her father’s paternalism as she dispenses advice and offers Jennifer guidance.
This season, Anissa’s character arc is all about growth. Nafessa Williams brings a warmth and brightness to the role that makes this busy life seem just about possible. Anissa takes on a new job at the free clinic, finding new ways to support her community beyond fighting crime. She also moves out of the family home, claiming the space she needs to live on her own terms. And she even gets her own wheels – though it’s not exactly the batmobile, Thunder looks pretty cool on her go-kart.
As Principal of the local high school, Jefferson Pierce is a pillar of the community. As Black Lightning, he’s a hero. And while Anissa has always taken inspiration from her father’s example, it’s exciting to see her step out from underneath his shadow. Thunder is just beginning to discover her full potential. As the plot progresses, Black Lightning and Thunder shift from a parental dynamic to a crime-fighting partnership of equals. Built on mutual respect and trust, this is a strong alliance.
Still, Anissa struggles to balance school, her secret identity, her new job at the free clinic, and family responsibilities. With so much to juggle, her love life has been lacking. Enter Zoe B, a pop sensation who likes the ladies. Viewers are served a reminder that Anissa’s got serious game. Zoe’s plush penthouse apartment and fame don’t phase her, and Anissa carries off a velvet smooth seduction.
Even during a hookup, Anissa is a role model. She refuses to skip class to spend time with her new boo. When Zoe suggests they jet to New York for dim sun, Anissa declines: “That sounds like something I could get myself lost in, so I’m going to go.” Although she’s not wearing the mask and suit that make her Thunder, there is power in Anissa setting clear boundaries and holding on to her values.
Fans of Grace Choi, bookseller and bartender extraordinaire, will not be disappointed. After a brush with death, Anissa is forced to evaluate what really matters to her. And Grace comes close to the top of the list. In season one their romance collapsed under the pressure of all the secrets Anissa kept to protect her alias. But, as we discover, Grace has been keeping a few secrets of her own.
Whether or not this couple is endgame, we don’t know. But the Black Lightning creators have left the door open. With the third season coming to Netflix in the near future, and the possibility of a fourth in the works, fans have everything to hope for.
