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ND Stevenson Biography

Introduction

Nate Diana “Indy” Stevenson, known professionally as ND Stevenson, stands as a prominent American cartoonist and animation producer, celebrated for his impactful contributions to the animated television series “She-Ra and the Princesses of Power” and the science fantasy graphic novel “Nimona.” This biography explores Stevenson’s versatile career, creative achievements, and personal journey.

Early Life and Education

Born Noelle Diana Stevenson on December 31, 1991, in Columbia, South Carolina, Stevenson embraced a creative path from a young age. Raised by parents Diana and Hal Stevenson, he was the third of five siblings. Homeschooled initially, Stevenson later attended A.C. Flora High School, where his talent in creating picture books earned him local recognition.

Stevenson’s formative years were influenced by cinematic and literary experiences, citing works like “The Prince of Egypt” and “The Lord of the Rings films” as significant inspirations. Graduating from the Maryland Institute College of Art in 2013, Stevenson gained early recognition as a fan artist under the moniker “gingerhaze.”

Career Milestones

Stevenson’s career took flight with the creation of the character “Nimona” during his junior year in college. This character evolved into a webcomic and, ultimately, a graphic novel published by HarperCollins, earning him prestigious accolades like the Eisner Award.

Following his graduation, Stevenson played a pivotal role at BOOM! Studios, contributing to the development and writing of the Eisner Award-winning series “Lumberjanes.” His involvement extended to Marvel Comics with works on “Thor Annual” and “Runaways.”

The pinnacle of Stevenson’s career emerged with the creation, showrunning, and executive production of “She-Ra and the Princesses of Power,” a critically acclaimed animated series that ran from 2018 to 2020. The show received Daytime Emmy and GLAAD Media Awards.

Contributions to LGBTQ+ Representation

ND Stevenson, being non-binary and transmasculine, has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ representation. In his webcomic “I’m Fine I’m Fine Just Understand,” Stevenson candidly discussed his transgender identity.

Stevenson’s commitment to inclusivity extended to “She-Ra,” where the show garnered praise for its diverse cast and nuanced portrayal of relationships, notably the complex dynamic between She-Ra and Catra. The series received accolades, including a GLAAD Media Award.

Personal Life and Identity

In 2019, Stevenson married fellow cartoonist Molly Knox Ostertag. His personal journey includes significant milestones such as embracing a nonbinary identity, undergoing top surgery, and openly discussing his experiences with mental health.

In August 2021, Stevenson adopted the name ND, reflecting a practical need for a less gendered name. In June 2022, he revealed the name Nate, which he had privately used since 2021, and accepted “Indy” as a nickname. Stevenson’s openness about his journey on platforms like Substack and Oprah Magazine has contributed to increased awareness and understanding of LGBTQ+ experiences.

Legacy and Ongoing Projects

Stevenson’s legacy encompasses Eisner Awards, a Daytime Emmy, and a GLAAD Media Award. Beyond animation, he continues to engage in diverse projects, including an unannounced “two book series of novels” based on teenage stories predating “Nimona” and participation in Dungeons & Dragons.

In 2023, Stevenson expressed entering a “new creative phase” and was recognized by Out magazine as a “disruptor” contributing to positive change for LGBTQ+ individuals.

This overview encapsulates ND Stevenson’s multifaceted career, emphasizing his creative impact, advocacy for representation, and personal journey, which collectively shape his significant presence in the realm of contemporary animation and storytelling.