KJ Apa Compares His Time Filming 'Riverdale' Series To Being 'In Jail'

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It seems like actor, KJ Apa is not very fond of his time on the CW series "Riverdale." In a new interview, the star compared working on the series to be "in jail."

In a chat with "Interview Magazine," the actor opened up to his "Songbird" co-star Demi Moore.

He spoke about the seemingly oppressive rules that was given on the famous series "Riverdale." The two actors opened the interviews with discussions about their new movie project titled "Songbird," set to air in 2024.

As they spoke about the movie, Apa shared that being on the "Songbird" was a welcome change from his usual teen crime series.

Sharing his opinion of the "CW" series, he explained that he felt like he was in jail during his time on the series as there were lots of restrictions.

He later continued that being on the "Songbird" gave him a real glimpse of expressing himself naturally without the heavy makeup or hair products, making him feel free like a bird.

The 23-year-old is best known for his custom "Riverdale" look. His character on the show, Archie Andrews, had red-orange hair color and a clean-shaven face.

Apa wore his natural brown hair in a shaggy hairdo after departing from the series and is now sporting a thick stubble.

Not to sound ungrateful for the career-boosting role, Apa added that although he was grateful for the show's success, he also felt the pressure and baggage that came with the display. He continued that the only people that could understand his issues are his co-stars on the series.

He picked out Cole Sprouse, who played the character Jughead Jones as a helpful presence. Jones is well versed in the TV industry as he has been working as a child actor with his twin brother Dylan Sprouse.

Apa also complained about getting judged by fans who couldn't separate his personal life from his character.

He continued that the mashed personalities do not happen with other professions, unlike how actors are judged for everything from their political opinions, opinions on drugs, or people they choose to be with. 

Apa and Moore continued their conversation, finding common ground as they realized their career kicked off with soap operas. While Apa’s started with "Riverdale," Moore’s began on "General Hospital."

Moore shared that she was inspired by actress Nastassja Kinski, who was her friend and neighbor at the time.

Another actor on the "Riverdale" series, Lili Reinhart, also previously said she felt like she was in prison during her time on set for the fifth season of the movie. She explained to "Nylon" that she was always reluctant to go back to work because she felt like a prisoner there.