Scooby-Doo’s Velma Dinkley is officially introduced as a member of the LGBTQ+ community for the first time. The iconic character, known for her witty wit and catchphrase “Jinkies!”, is shown having a crush on another female character in a scene from the latest film in the Scooby-Doo franchise.

In a scene from HBO Max’s new Halloween-themed movie, which was released Tuesday for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video, the group meets costume designer Coco Diablo, who is voiced by actor Kate Micucci.

Upon seeing Coco, Velma quickly loses her thoughts, noting the new heroine’s “amazing turtleneck,” “incredible glasses,” “brilliant” intelligence, and love of animals. Then Velma says, “Dinky!” while her cheeks flush and her glasses fog up.

In another scene, Velma confesses to Daphne that she has a “huge crush” on Coco.

In the past, people have speculated about Velma’s sexuality, but until now, she was not seen as outwardly queer. The franchise’s producers and writers have noted in the past that the character is anything but simple.

In 2020, Scooby Doo! Mystery Incorporated is produced by Tony Cervone placed on Velma’s sexuality in a message for Pride Month.

“Obviously I don’t represent every version of Velma Dinkley, but I’m one of the key people who represents this one. We made our intentions clear ten years ago,” Cervone wrote. “Most of our fans understood. For those who did not understand, I suggest you take a closer look. There is no new news here.”

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/new-scooby-doo-movie-portrays-velma-as-lgbtq/