Archie Comics will introduce a new female character named Harper. The newest member of the Riverdale gang, cousin to Veronica Lodge, has a disability.
Writer and artist Dan Parent became inspired to create Harper after having a conversation with author Jewel Kats, who is also disabled. The character’s debut will take place in Archie issue #656; this comic is slated for release on June 18th.
Co-CEO and publisher Jon Goldwater had this statement in the press release: “Harper is, first and foremost, a funny, fashionable and witty teenager. The fact that she’s disabled is only one part of her story, and we’re excited to welcome her to Riverdale and Archie Comics.”