Same-sex marriage may only be lawful in six states, but it's perfectly legal in the fictional Riverdale of Archie fame. Earlier this week, Archie Comics announced that Kevin Keller, the series' first openly gay character (who was introduced in April 2010), would be getting married. After coming back to Riverdale as a war hero, Keller will marry "Mr. Right" in the January 4, 2012 issue. Is this a natural evolution for the classic comic, or does Archie harbor a "political agenda"?
This is needlessly political and divisive: "It's unfortunate that a comic book series usually seen as depicting innocent, all-American life is now being used to advance the sexual revolution," says the Family Research Council's Peter Spriggs, as quoted by Fox News. This brings an "obvious social and political agenda" to comics. Some may find the storyline novel, but it's likely to alienate more people than it pleases.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
5 holier-than-thou cartoons about the Pope's passingCartoons Artists take on a new ride, an old hat, and more
-
Creamy kale slaw with hazelnuts recipeThe Week Recommends This slaw with a 'cracking texture' makes the perfect side that will elevate any meal
-
Trump's war on academic freedom: how Harvard fought backTalking Point Political pressure on institutions compromises academic independence – and risks damaging America's ability to attract international talent
-
The JFK files: the truth at last?In The Spotlight More than 64,000 previously classified documents relating the 1963 assassination of John F. Kennedy have been released by the Trump administration
-
'Seriously, not literally': how should the world take Donald Trump?Today's big question White House rhetoric and reality look likely to become increasingly blurred
-
Will Trump's 'madman' strategy pay off?Today's Big Question Incoming US president likes to seem unpredictable but, this time round, world leaders could be wise to his playbook
-
Democrats vs. Republicans: who are the billionaires backing?The Explainer Younger tech titans join 'boys' club throwing money and support' behind President Trump, while older plutocrats quietly rebuke new administration
-
US election: where things stand with one week to goThe Explainer Harris' lead in the polls has been narrowing in Trump's favour, but her campaign remains 'cautiously optimistic'
-
Is Trump okay?Today's Big Question Former president's mental fitness and alleged cognitive decline firmly back in the spotlight after 'bizarre' town hall event
-
The life and times of Kamala HarrisThe Explainer The vice-president is narrowly leading the race to become the next US president. How did she get to where she is now?
-
Will 'weirdly civil' VP debate move dial in US election?Today's Big Question 'Diametrically opposed' candidates showed 'a lot of commonality' on some issues, but offered competing visions for America's future and democracy
