QUESTION AND ANSWER: VERONICA WRITER DAN PARENT

Archie Comics this past week announced its first gay character, Kevin, who will debut in Veronica #202 in September.

Following is an interview with the issue's writer, Dan Parent:

Question: What made this the right time to introduce a gay character?

Parent: We have such a commitment to diversity in Riverdale, and our current books show that. With our introduction of so many new characters this year, we knew the time was right.

Question: In the best case scenario, what does this do for Archie comics?

Parent: It shows that we reflect today's society, and that everybody is welcome in Riverdale.

Question: Do you think this will surprise some of your readers?

Parent: Yes, but what's even more surprising is the reaction of "What took you so long?" We're hearing a lot of that too.

Question: Do you think it will surprise their parents?

Parent: In some cases, yes. But unless you live in a bubble, we all have gay friends and family members. They've become a part of our lives. Why not part of our Riverdale family too?

Question: Is Kevin going to have a boyfriend?

Parent: We're not there yet, but probably at some point.

Question: How do the kids react to Kevin?

Parent: Well, the kids in Riverdale are fully accepting of Kevin. Even Veronica, who wishes he was straight since she has real designs on him!

Question: Do you think this is a typical reaction?

Parent: All I know is, in my kids' schools, there are gay kids who are widely accepted. Not that there isn't bigotry still out there, and being gay is a tougher road for many, but the level of acceptance is light-years ahead of where it was, say, 20 years ago.

Question: Is Kevin a one-time-only character or will he be around for years to come?

Parent: Kevin is here to stay. I'm already plotting out the next stories with Kevin. He adds a lot to the world of Riverdale.

Question: Will he be in all the comics or just Veronica?

Parent: He'll be integrated into the other books too.

Question: There was a big deal made when Raj debuted and again with Kumi, but neither of them are seen much in the comics today. Will Kevin be a major character or a minor character in the Archie Universe?

Parent: As long as I'm at Archie -- and I plan on being there until I'm dead! -- Kevin will continue on. Kumi is featured in our "Battle of the BFFs" story this fall. Raj is in our "New School" series this fall. Archie Comics is bringing a whole new focus to the entire Archie Universe going forward.