Archie Comics to introduce Kevin Keller, openly gay character
“Riverdale has always been a safe world for everyone.” — Jon Goldwater, co-CEO of Archie Comics, on plans to introduce Kevin Keller, an openly gay character, in September issue.
The introduction of Kevin Keller, Archie Comics first openly gay character in Veronica #202 garnered some free publicity.
The complete quote:
“The introduction of Kevin is just about keeping the world of Archie Comics current and inclusive. Archie’s hometown of Riverdale has always been a safe world for everyone. It just makes sense to have an openly gay character in Archie comic books.”
“It just makes sense.”
Does it?
Let me be cynical, Archie has to keep up or get left behind. Meaning they’re not likely going to get a Hollywood development deal for an Archie movie if the brand doesn’t start reflecting the world Hollywood deems acceptable – one that is tolerant of gays.
I don’t personally think you bring sexual orientation to a child’s comic book, but then again the Safe School Czar wants sexual tolerance of gays to be added to the kindergarten curriculum.
Ironically, Goldwater’s father, John L. Goldwater, played a large role in the Comics Code Authority in the 1950′s which censored comic books, including banning references to homosexuality.
Times have changed in Riverdale. Archie has given up on Betty and Veronica and is currently dating Valerie Smith, the African-American member of Josie and the Pussycats.
Now Kevin Keller brings a whole new theme homosexuality, to Archie, but should we be asking ourselves if it’s appropriate for kids?
Maybe there shouldn’t be boundries, isn’t that what Hollywood wants?
I just don’t expect a devout, open Christian character.
No, frankly, this just reeks of another chapter in the efforts to destroy all things wholesome and clean.
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