Riverdale to introduce first bisexual character as it returns for second season

American teen drama Riverdale is set to introduce its first LGBT character, as the show returns for a second series.

After first hitting screens earlier this year, the show will be returning this October, and bosses have promised to explore bisexual themes.

Based on characters from Archie Comics, the series has yet to see a gay character.

However, the original books have always hinted that famously pink-haired Toni Topaz is bisexual.

Vanessa Morgan, who previously starred in MTV’s Finding Carter and teen sitcom The Latest Buzz, will be taking on the role which will be introduced in October.

Speaking to Entertainment Today executive producer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa also hinted the new character could be trouble for Betty and Jughead’s relationship.

“Toni Topaz is a character who was added on a little more recently in the comic books and she’s always been very, very vivacious, exciting and a bit of a disrupter,” he explained.

When asked about the character’s bisexuality, he added: “That’s a really good question and I believe yes that is something that we’re going to explore.”

He also revealed Morgan had previously auditioned for the show – but missed out as she didn’t quite fit the characters.

“Vanessa auditioned for Riverdale for us last year and we all fell in love with her.

“We didn’t have a spot for her last year, but I called her after she auditioned and tested and I said, ‘I’m so sorry I’m not going to be able to bring you aboard this year, but I love you and I promise you’re going to come and be a part of Riverdale next year.’”

The announcement follows the news Once Upon a Time is set air a “prominent” gay storyline in new series this autumn.

Speaking about the new plot executive producers Adam Horowitz and Edward Kitsis promised this time a main character would be in line for an LGBT romance.

“One of the show’s franchises is love,” Kitsis explained. “This iteration is reflecting the world today. It will not be anything more than just one of the other love stories that are happening.

“I don’t think it’s an arc,” he continued. “It’ll be a character who is gay and that’s who they are and they exist in the world. They don’t have a sign that says ‘special episode.’”

As yet though, the pair are again keeping tight-lipped on who could be part of the story.

• Dec 01 2023

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