Okay, here we go (attempt number two).
Moment 101:
"... AS HUSBAND AND WIFE!"
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Issue: X-Men: Gold #30
What: Honestly one of the biggest surprises I've ever experienced in a comicbook. We went into this issue expecting a union between Kitty and Colossus, only to get a stolen wedding by Rogue and Gambit.
Leading up to the event, there were a lot of subtle hints that something was afoot. Adding both characters quietly to the Gold roster. The sealed mystery covers. But I never in a million years thought Marvel would have the brass to ACTUALLY pull the trigger.
Gambit and Rogue as a married couple were foreshadowed in potential futures from Claremont and Nicieza alike, but it never seemed like we would see it in the 616 proper, especially after so much damage had been done to them in past storylines. No doubt so much of the credit goes to Kelly Thompson for turning some heads around on this pairing and inspiring this idea to be put forth by Donny Cates. Not only did this wedding event rival the BatCat wedding, but since that event fell through by design, Marvel actually came out smelling likes roses among fans and making bigger headlines. Gambit and Rogue were popular enough among the non-comics crowd thanks to cartoon and movie appearances that even general crowds could recognize them and the overall reaction was quite positive in and outside the comics community.
As for the issue itself, I love it. I personally love the spontaneity. Honestly these two knuckleheads suck at planning, so I liked seeing them just deciding and acting in the moment. No fussing about seating arrangements or table settings. LOL I love that Rogue got married in green. The art is stunning. I love how personal, honest, and heartfelt the vows are. This issue was a huge standout for Mark Guggenheim. He clearly had some input from someone or somewhere. The fact that "always" is incorporated into their vows was huge. Also the promise Rogue makes feels a bit meta, giving the reader the possibility of future reunions if/when tribulations tear them apart down the road.
It's a rare thing for a comicbook couple to get this level of blessing and attention, probably even rarer to keep it. But at least we had this awesome moment for our favorite characters and no matter what, no one can take that away. It gives me hope Marvel just might surprise me yet with more good things in their story ... maybe in another 30 years.