Riverdale creator vows to write better for black characters amid criticism

Last Updated on July 30, 2021

The CW's Riverdale came under fire this week when one of its series' regulars, Vanessa Morgan, criticized the show's treatment of black characters. In response to the criticism, Riverdale showrunner, Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, is vowing that the show will grow and improve on this issue moving forward.

Morgan portrays Toni Topaz on the popular CW series. The actress joined the show during season 2 in a recurring capacity before being added as a series regular for season 3. In the comics, on which Riverdale is based, the character made her debut in 2012 and became notable for being a bisexual black female. Toni's inclusion was seen as a way to draw in a new generation of fans to the comics and when she made her jump to the series, there were hopes that Toni's backstory would be expanded upon. This hasn't really been the case in the eyes of fans and critics who believe the character has remained underdeveloped. Morgan recently revealed she feels the same way about her character is depicted in a series of social media posts. The actress stated that she was tired of being considered only for diversity's sake and primarily featured as a sidekick to white protagonists when the character's backstory is so rich. Morgan also pointed out that, despite being a series regular, she is the least paid in comparison to her white co-stars. Viewers backed her up on social media and noted that the character's trajectory follows a pattern of sidelining black characters. You can check out Morgan's Tweets below: 

Riverdale creator Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa has seen and heard Vanessa Morgann and he has responded with promises that he will make improvements and show growth n how the series treats its characters of color. He goes on to point out his love for Morgan and he also believes her criticisms are justified:

I know this is a very touchy subject so I will just leave it at this: It's very important to know your worth. If you're feeling slighted, speak on it. Silence doesn't make for great progress. Positive conversations on this matter can spark change and like Sacasa said, at least on his show, those changes will be taking place in the writer's room.