Riverdale High School, the stomping grounds of comic books’ favorite teen and his friends, is opening its doors to an openly gay student – a first in the 69-year history of the character.
“We’re trying to reflect society and we’re just trying to show Riverdale is a diverse place,” says Dan Parent, the artist-writer behind the series.
Kevin Keller makes his debut in September in “Veronica” No. 202, on sale in September, as a hunky new kid who catches the raven-haired vixen’s eye. Though Veronica is used to getting her way, she’s finally run up against a boy who’s immune to her charms. Cue the hijinks.
Parent says he hopes the positive message will offend as few people as possible, but adverse conservative reaction “was not a reason not to do the story.”
Archie Comics Co-CEO Jon Goldwater said in the few hours since the official announcement his voice mail has been overwhelmed with messages – mostly in support of the company’s decision.
“Riverdale is a safe place for everybody. Everyone’s welcome with Archie and the Gang,” says Goldwater, “and that’s the message we’re trying to send.”
