Dan Parent gifts a ‘Delhiite’ Archie at city’s comic fest
Do the names Archie Andrews, Betty Cooper or Veronica Lodge ring a bell in your mind? Then, the name Dan Parent isn’t new to you. The American comic book artist and the man behind Archie’s world in Riverdale was recently in the Capital to be part of the Delhi Comic Con that he enjoyed thoroughly.
“I’m very excited. It’s my third trip to India, and my first to Delhi!” said Parent as he unveiled his plan in the threeday fest.“My plan is to meet as many people I can and see all that I am able to.”
The artist, who created an exclusive commissioned edition of Archie comics with a Delhi inspired cover, said that he’d like to write more Indiancentric comics in future. “It was thrilling to work on this variant for India Comic Con. I’ve enjoyed my visits of this great show, and was excited to be here and sign copies of the cover I had working on. I love Indian culture and have many Indian friends. I’ve done a few stories with Indian characters. I hope do more.”
Parent is also the creator of the first openly gay character in Archie —Kevin Keller. He believes that such stand taken in the narrative makes Archie comics extraordinary and inclusive. “We’re always trying to be as inclusive as we can at Archie Comics. So, introducing Kevin was a natural part of our evolution. We support LGBT rights and we have readers from all races and orientation. We want all of them to be a part of Riverdale.”
Ask him about the new popular show Riverdale, and he says, “I like the show. I think the casting is what makes the show so good. Successful TV shows have casts that click with viewers, and this cast has done that. I like Casey Cott as Kevin Keller, and I’m glad that he’s a series regular this year.”
Parent has also worked with Disney and adores the classic style animated films. “We all grew up on Disney, so to work on anything related to Disney is fun. I’m a fan of the Pixar films, but I do miss the classic style animated films.”