Archie Comics’ controversial kiss

It’s a just quick kiss, but it’s a long step forward for openly gay character Kevin Keller in Archie Comics.

The Riverdale teen finds his life turned upside down after locking lips with boyfriend Devon in Pop Tate’s diner, drawing the ire of at least one disapproving Riverdale mom.

Veronica uploads a video of the upset mum’s reaction online, which leads to a media frenzy about how much is too much when it comes public displays of affection.

For Archie Comics it’s a bit of art imitating life. Writer Dan Parent says the story echoes a similar outcry when Keller’s wedding was the subject of a failed protest to pull copies off the shelves of retail stores.

He calls it a “playful poke” at the protest, which did nothing to deter that issue from selling out.