Unpacking Jordan Li: Derek Luh on Gen V's Groundbreaking Hero and the Road to Season 2

"Gen V" burst onto the scene, quickly establishing itself as a compelling, mature spin-off within "The Boys" universe. At its heart lies a roster of complex characters, none more fascinating and groundbreaking than Jordan Li. Portrayed by the dynamic duo of Derek Luh (male form) and London Thor (female form), Jordan is a supe with the extraordinary ability to shift gender, each form possessing distinct powers: the male form exhibits invulnerability, while the female unleashes powerful energy blasts.

This innovative portrayal has not only captivated audiences but also pushed the boundaries of superhero representation, earning Jordan the top spot in Vought’s official rankings by the season’s end.

For Derek Luh, stepping into Jordan’s shoes was an experience unlike any other. He recounts his initial surprise and subsequent excitement upon discovering the intricate nature of his character.

"When I first auditioned, I only had a few pages," Luh explains, "and it said Jordan was gender-shifting. I thought, 'Oh, okay, cool.' Then, after I booked the role and got the full script, I realized, 'Wait, I'm only one half of this character!' It was a revelation, but also a fantastic challenge. London and I worked meticulously to ensure Jordan felt like one cohesive person, despite being played by two actors.

We'd share notes, observe each other's mannerisms, and truly build this character together. It's a testament to the show's creators for crafting such a nuanced and forward-thinking role."

The series, a gritty exploration of Godolkin University, a college dedicated to training the next generation of supes, masterfully navigates themes of identity, power, and morality.

Jordan’s gender fluidity is treated with refreshing normalcy, simply another facet of their powers, allowing the show to delve into deeper socio-political commentaries without feeling preachy. Luh emphasizes this delicate balance: "What I love about 'Gen V' is how it introduces these progressive ideas and characters, but it doesn't shout them at you.

Jordan’s identity is just a part of who they are, not a political statement. It lets the audience engage with the story and these concepts organically, which is far more impactful."

Season 1 concluded with a bang, leaving fans on the edge of their seats and Jordan Li in a precarious position.

Trapped and framed alongside their friends Marie, Andre, and Emma, the “Godolkin Four” found themselves branded as dangerous villains by Vought. This dramatic cliffhanger sets the stage for a potentially explosive second season, and Luh is just as eager as the fans to see what unfolds. "We ended in such a wild place," he muses.

"Jordan, who has always strived for recognition and respect, now faces public vilification. It's a huge shift, and I'm incredibly excited to explore how they cope with that, how it affects their relationships, and what their fight for redemption looks like."

Fan theories about Jordan's past and future are already swirling, with some speculating about their connection to the mysterious death of Luke in the premiere.

Luh remains tight-lipped but acknowledges the creative energy of the fanbase. "The fans are brilliant," he grins. "They pick up on every little detail. I can't confirm or deny anything, but it's exciting to see how invested everyone is. It just shows how much the show resonates."

Beyond the immediate excitement for Season 2, Luh reflects on the broader impact of "Gen V." The show's critical acclaim and passionate fan base are clear indicators of its success in carving out its own identity within "The Boys" universe.

"It's truly gratifying to be part of something so well-received," Luh concludes. "The show deals with mature themes, complex characters, and isn't afraid to get messy. Jordan Li, in particular, represents a step forward in diverse storytelling within the superhero genre. I’m just so proud to bring them to life, and I can't wait for everyone to see what's next." As the wait for Season 2 continues, one thing is clear: Jordan Li, and "Gen V" as a whole, are set to continue challenging conventions and thrilling audiences with their unparalleled blend of action, heart, and unapologetic social commentary.