Riverdale (2017–2023)

Bias Rating

Analyzing...

Strong Left

Viewer Rating

Rating: 7.4

Overview

After the death of one of the rich and popular Blossom twins on the 4th of July, the small town of Riverdale investigates the murder. The series starts in September, the beginning of a new school year, that brings with i...

Starring Cast

Lili Reinhart • Camila Mendes • Cole Sprouse

Where to watch

Netflix

Prime Video

Apple TV

Bias Dimensions

Political: Leans Left

Diversity: High

LGBTQ: Positive

Race Swap: Yes

Overview

Starring Cast

Lili Reinhart • Camila Mendes • Cole Sprouse

Where to watch

Netflix

Prime Video

Apple TV

Detailed Bias Analysis

Analyzing...

Strong Left

Primary

Political: Leans LeftConfidence: Medium

The series leans left due to its consistent critique of corrupt local institutions and its prominent, positive portrayal of diverse sexual identities, even though its solutions often rely on individual vigilantism rather than systemic reform.

Diversity: HighConfidence: High

Riverdale demonstrates significant diversity, equity, and inclusion through its casting choices, which intentionally diversify traditionally white-coded roles and give prominence to LGBTQ+ characters. The narrative further reinforces this by frequently critiquing traditional power structures and portraying figures embodying these identities in a negative light, making DEI themes central to the show's storytelling.

Secondary

LGBTQ: PositiveConfidence: High

Riverdale features multiple prominent LGBTQ+ characters whose identities and relationships are integral to the narrative. The show depicts long-term, loving queer relationships and portrays characters with agency and complexity. While characters face external prejudice and challenges, the series consistently affirms the worth of their identities and relationships, leading to a net positive portrayal.

Race Swap: YesConfidence: High

Riverdale adapts characters from Archie Comics. Reggie Mantle, canonically white, is portrayed by Asian-American actors. Melody Valentine, also canonically white, is portrayed by a Black actress. The Lodge family (Veronica, Hermione, Hiram), originally depicted as white, are portrayed by Latina actors, with their heritage integrated into the show.

FemPower: N/R

The movie does not contain any action or adventure elements.

Gender Swap: NoConfidence: High

Riverdale adapts characters from Archie Comics. All major and recurring characters, such as Archie, Betty, Veronica, and Jughead, maintain the same gender as established in the original comic book series. No instances of a character canonically established as one gender being portrayed as a different gender were identified.