‘Riverdale’ actor Vanessa Morgan calls out show for sidelining black characters

Vanessa Morgan is challenging the lack of inclusion of people of colour on mainstream TV shows. The Riverdale actor has played Toni Topaz on the Vancouver-shot drama since 2017 and is bravely speaking out against her series and other show’s continued insistence that non-white actors should be relegated to supporting characters only.The Canadian actor tweeted on Sunday that she was done being quiet about the portrayal of Black people in the media, saying they’re often depicted as thugs, dangerous, or angry and scary people. “Tired of us also being used as sidekick, non-dimensional characters to our white leads. Or only used as ads for diversity but not actually in the show. It starts with the media. I’m not being quiet anymore.”

I’m not being Quite anymore. ✊? #BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/JXgJic4mrR

— Vanessa Morgan (@VanessaMorgan) May 31, 2020

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The actor later clarified her statement to note that she was referring to those behind the scenes on Riverdale and not her co-stars. “My role on Riverdale has nothing to do with my fellow castmates/friends,” tweeted Morgan. “They don’t write the show. So no need to attack them, they don’t call the shots & I know they have my back.” Morgan has received support on social media from Riverdale lead Lili Reinhart and former co-star.

We love you, V. And support you 10000%.

— Lili Reinhart (@lilireinhart) June 2, 2020

Morgan, who was raised in Ottawa and in January married Chicago White Sox pitcher Michael Kopech, appeared on two episodes on Degrassi: The Next Generation in 2013 and received support from her former co-star, Demetrius Joyette.

This.

— Demetrius Joyette (@SLsJoyette) May 31, 2020

Her statement on representation in the media came after Morgan defended her friend and former Riverdale co-star Ashleigh Murray, who one person tweeted was written off the series because of acting like a ‘diva.’ “Another thing I hate BLACK women being called DIVAS for sticking up for themselves,” tweeted Morgan. “Maybe the show should write for her like the white characters.”

You don’t know what the fuck your talking about and don’t talk about my friend like that. Another thing i hate BLACK women being called DIVAS for sticking up for themselves. Maybe the show should write for her like the white characters. You picked the wrong day get off my page. https://t.co/go74B7YBYc

— Vanessa Morgan (@VanessaMorgan) May 31, 2020

In light of the recent protests taking place across the U.S., Canada and beyond in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, Morgan said that she finally feels as though she can speak up for herself and other people of colour and be heard.

Exactly, finally feel like I can speak up for myself and my fellow brothers and sisters & be heard. Usually everyone is fake listening. I really hope a change is coming. https://t.co/SrVQ20g9zg

— Vanessa Morgan (@VanessaMorgan) June 2, 2020

Showing how she plans on continuing to use her platform to enact change and lift up other people of colour, Morgan also tweeted that she will only wear outfits by Black fashion designers for future red carpet events.

From now on any red carpet or event I will be wearing and supporting Black designers. Any aspiring Black designers hit me up. I got you. I see you. ?

— Vanessa Morgan (@VanessaMorgan) June 3, 2020

Riverdale is produced in the U.S. by the CW. On Monday, the station shared a Black Lives Matter Instagram post, but have yet to respond to Morgan’s comments.

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