| “ | I don't know, just like-- part of me feels like rebooting the band means going backwards to who I was in high school. Having a band sometimes brought out the worst in me. I was spending more time navigating band politics than focusing on what really mattered... you know, music. But I'm more mature now, so, it'll be different... because... I'm different. | ” |
Josephine "Josie" McCoy was a main character on The CW's Riverdale and is a main character on Katy Keene. She is portrayed by Ashleigh Murray.
Josie was a student at Riverdale High School and was the lead singer, as well as the guitarist of her band, Josie and the Pussycats. However, after she secretly made the decision to pursue a solo music career, Valerie Brown and Melody Valentine disbanded the group. She is the daughter of Myles and Sierra McCoy, who was the mayor of Riverdale. Her father, who's a man of music, gave her the name Josephine, naming Josie after the late singer Josephine Baker. Because of this, she often struggles to gain his approval while also trying to impress him. Unlike her father, Josie's mother, Sierra, is far more encouraging of her talents, especially where her band and music are concerned. They both enforce "black excellence", especially when the choice of the band members are concerned.
Character Description
A snooty and ambitious teen. She’s the lead singer of Josie and the Pussycats and has no interest in recording any songs written by Archie.[1]
Spinning off from her time in the small town of Riverdale, a now 20-something Josie sets off on a new adventure to make it in the big city. More determined than ever to break into the music scene as the next Diana Ross, Josie finds herself forging new friendships, falling into new relationships, and, one day, becoming the star she is destined to be.[2]
Early Life
Josie grew up in Riverdale. She was primarily raised by her mother, as her father was often away on business. In Josie's early years, her mother became the mayor of Riverdale, and consequently, she and her mother had to endure the hate mail and slanderous messages people were sending to them. Sometime prior to her introduction to the series, she formed a musical group that would later become known as Josie and the Pussycats. Josie, along with the other two members Valerie and Melody, spent their time practicing in the stock room at Power Records where they worked. One day, Josie came to rehearsal with a bag of cheap cat ears from the Halloween store. With her goals in sight, she plans on making it big; winning the Rockland County's Battle of the Bands the prior year was only the beginning.
Throughout Riverdale
Throughout Katy Keene
Season 1
Dreaming of New York City
Josie arrives in NYC
Tired of wasting her potential in Riverdale, Josie moves to New York City. She meets with Katy Keene around the corner from Lopez Bodega. They hug, though they’ve never met in person before. However, a friend of Veronica Lodge’s is a friend of Katy's, she says. Katy helps Josie with her bags up to their four-story walk-up. Katy introduces Josie to her other roommate Jorge Lopez. He’d offer to give Josie a grand tour, but he’s working at the bar tonight, and he has to get ready for his audition for a Broadway musical based on the film the Mannequin. After Jorge leaves, Katy explains the living situation. She has the bedroom to the right. Jorge has the bigger bedroom because his parents own the building and the bodega. And Josie’s getting the main room.
Katy and Josie share their dreams
Katy and Josie grab a bite to eat and sit on a park bench, where Katy asks to know more about Josie, who Veronica describes as the next Diana Ross. Josie’s been thinking about moving to New York for a while. She finally got the nerve to pack up and just take the risk. And now she’s there to record an album, get signed by a record label, and make all of her "crazy wish-upon-a-star, kiss-my-Whitney-poster-goodnight dreams come true." She then asks about Katy, who reveals that she made all the clothes in the apartment on her mom's sewing machine. However, Katy denies being a legit designer, writing it off as a pipe dream. She chose a slightly more sensible career path; assisting Gloria Grandbilt, a world-class personal shopper to the rich, fabulous, and entitled. Josie needs to start canvassing the town with her resume for a job. Which she can start tomorrow because Katy has plans to take Josie out to meet the gang.
Josie meets Pepper
Katy and Josie party at a local nightclub, Molly's Crisis, where Katy runs into Pepper Smith, a friend of hers. Josie compliments Pepper’s bag, which she reveals was made by Katy. Pepper just got back from Art Basel with Childish Gambino, lining up investors for her top-secret project that she can't breathe a word of until her financing is in place. Josie asks what it is that she does. Pepper just gave a TED talk on the feminist power of Snapchat. She wrote this week's Modern Love column in the Times. And earlier this year, she shot an Indie with Lupita Nyong'o and Kristen Stewart. In other words, Pepper is the most connected person in New York, and she will introduce Josie to everyone that's anyone, Katy adds. Kathy's boyfriend, KO Kelly, who works as a bouncer at the club, arrives and introduces himself to Josie. He asks if Gloria gave her the job. Katy tells him not yet. Gloria is making her sweat for it.
Katy, Josie, and Pepper hit the dance floor. Jorge, under the stage name of Ginger Lopez, performs on stage in the dress Katy designed for him.
Alexander offers Josie an opportunity
The next morning, Josie begins her job search, applying to every restaurant and shop in the area. A busker, who long ago, much like Josie, was new to New York, comforts her with a song, which Josie sings along with, gaining the attention of passersby, including Alexander Cabot. He approaches Josie, claiming to be in the music business. He works for a label, and they’re looking for new talent. He hands Josie his card and asks if she knows where the Electric Lady recording studio is. Josie's familiar enough with it to know that it’s where Prince, Stevie Wonder, and David Bowie recorded. He asks Josie to meet him there tomorrow and to be ready to sing.
Josie reveals she met Alexander Cabot
Josie, Jorge, Katy, and Pepper pour drinks and celebrate Katy’s win at work with Prince Errol Swoon. Pepper spent last Easter with him on his yacht in Mykonos. They’re certain she’ll get the personal shopper job now, but she doesn’t want to jinx it, so Katy changes the subject to Josie, asking if she found a job. No, she didn’t, but she met Alexander Cabot, who works for a record label and wants to meet tomorrow after Josie sends him one of her songs. Josie met him at Washington Square Park, where he heard her singing with a busker. Pepper explains that the Cabots are in the same mentions as the Astors and Rockefellers. They own everything. Katy doesn’t want Josie to go alone in fear for her safety and offers to accompany her. Josie insists that she’ll be fine; "I am from Riverdale. It is the murder capital of the world." Still, Katy wishes to join her as her manager if nothing else. She even makes Josie a dress.
Josie sings for Alexander
As planned, Katy and Josie meet with Alexander at the studio, and she gets in the booth and sings, much to Katy and Alexander’s amazement. Alexander wants to introduce Josie to the Cabot board and play them the song. Then, once they approve, Alexander wants to sign her to record a full album and launch her career as an international pop star. Alexander then asks if anyone else is hungry. Katy excuses herself, claiming to have other clients to attend to, allowing Josie and Alexander to spend some time together.
Alexander and Josie kiss
Josie shares her past with Alexander, such as how she formed Josie and the Pussycats and performed at Veronica’s speakeasy. She also went on tour with her dad, a jazz musician. And since then, she’s been working on finding her sound as a solo artist. Alexander and Josie then kiss at the top of the step.
Josie wakes up in Alexander’s bed. She looks out the window at the view of the city before Alexander joins her in and starts kissing her.
Josie is turned down by the Cabot board
Alexander plays Josie’s song for the Cabot board, which his twin sister, Alexandra, is part of. They’re unimpressed with Josie’s performance and pass on it. Alexandra introduces herself to Josie as the Senior VP of Cabot Entertainment. While Josie has a nice voice, if they’re going to re-launch the record division, spending millions of dollars by doing so, it has to be someone who’s undeniable. Alexander insists that Josie’s a star, but his sister isn’t convinced, asking which park did he find Josie in, suggesting that she isn’t the first. Josie leaves. Alexander follows her out and explains that his sister doesn’t want him re-launching the record label, as she thinks it’s a waste of money, but he intends to prove her wrong with Josie. However, she refuses to get pulled into his family drama.
Josie pushes Katy to pursue her dream
Katy returns home, where she tells Josie, Jorge, and Pepper that not only did she not get the promotion, Gloria has exiled her to the stockroom. Jorge tells her to quit, but Katy needs the job. Besides, she’s wanted to work at Lacy's since she was a little girl. Her mom always dreamt of having her dresses sold there. Josie points out that there lies Katy’s problem. Her real dream is to have her clothes sold at Lacy's. Jorge recalls Katy admitting that when they first met, that she wanted to be a designer. While this is true, Katy informs them about KO’s offer. He wants to move to Philadelphia, so he can train at a world-famous gym. Pepper can’t believe she would move away in pursuit of KO's dream, at the expense of her own. Jorge announcers his decision to give up Broadway. He’s tired of being rejected all because he doesn't fit into their little box. However, his friends reply that he should give himself another chance.
Katy and Josie cheer Ginger on
The next day, Katy and Josie watch from the crowd as Jorge auditions for Mannequin. The casting director calls him out specifically. He recognizes Jorge from before and tells him that this is Broadway, not some drag contest in the village, and dismisses him. Jorge has heard it all before: "too soft, too fem, too gay, too skinny." But he doesn't care because he knows that he’s good enough. And, for the record, he tells the casting director that those queens in the village have more talent than most of the people in the theater. If they can't see talent when it's right in front of them, then they don't deserve to have someone like Jorge/Ginger in their chorus. Katy and Josie cheer him on as he exits.
The gang sneaks into Lacy's
Katy, Josie, Jorge, and Pepper pre-game at the apartment. Katy had an epiphany earlier today. She no longer wants to work at Lacy’s, so tomorrow she’s quitting. Josie encourages Katy to do what’s best for her but tells her not to move to Philly. As for tonight, they’re going out, but first, they stop by Lacy’s, where they try on shoes and various perfumes. However, Katy is caught by Francois as she attempts to sneak away. She claims that she left her wallet behind. She notices that he’s upset and asks what’s wrong. Francois reveals that the client, Comme des Filles, threw out his concept for the window. Now, he has until sunrise to figure out a new way to display three evening gowns.
The unveiling of Lacy's window
The following morning, Katy, Jose, Jorge, Pepper, Francois, Gloria, and Mrs. Lacy convene outside Lacy’s, where a crowd has gathered for the annual unveiling of their new store windows. They pull up the curtain and reveal the window, filled with Katy’s designs. The crowd applauds, and Mrs. Lacy is speechless. Francois informs everyone that it was Katy’s idea, and for her hard work, he’d like to offer her a job in his department. It’s low pay and long hours, but she’ll be rewarded for her talents. The job comes with one condition. He’s not letting her work for him forever. She has nine months with him before he wants her out in the world designing.
Later that night, Josie performs at Molly’s Crisis, as Katy, Pepper, and Jorge/Ginger cheer her on from the crowd.[3]
Josie and friends discuss their problems
At the apartment, Katy reveals to Josie, Pepper, and Jorge how KO's proposal was interrupted by who some are calling the Alphabet City Bandit. However, Katy isn’t sure what her answer would’ve been. She couldn’t bring herself to say yes. Josie asks if Katy loves KO, which she replies that she and KO have been together since high school, neglecting to answer the question asked. Jorge advises Katy to lock KO down while she has the chance, but Josie sees the ring getting stolen as fate. It buys Katy some time to do some soul searching to determine if KO is the one.
Josie gives Jorge her share of the rent. However, she’s short. Jorge explains that they each pay $1000, though Josie was under the impression that it was to be split three ways between herself, Jorge, and Katie. Josie has her first shift at Plunkin’ Donuts today and plans to ask for more hours so that she may acquire the rest. Jorge reminds Josie she has to hustle to stay afloat. It’s why he works at the bar and bodega between auditions.
Josie applies for a job at Chubby's
Josie applies for a job at Chubby's Record Shop. She asks Chubby, the store owner if he’s still hiring. She tells him how she’s new to NYC, having just moved from Riverdale, a "rough town," by his account. Josie needs to be around music. After thinking it over, Chubby hires Josie in hopes she’ll provide "youthful idealism."
Josie meets with Alexander
Later, Josie meets with Alexander on a park bench. He explains that there isn’t currently a record label at Cabot Entertainment, but there used to be. His dad said he could reboot it and get back to their roots if he found the right artist, which isn’t Josie, at least according to Alexandra. After listening to Josie’s demo, Alexander claims to know where they went wrong. However, Josie questions why he suddenly believes there to be something wrong with her demo despite previously saying it was perfect. She tells him to stand by his work regardless of what his sister thinks. Alexander knows for a fact they made something good, but he thinks they can make it better and has booked Josie some studio time. However, Josie blows him off.
The following day, Josie does a complete inventory of the store, organizing all records by artist and genre. Unfortunately, Chubby informs Josie that he just lost a four year battle with his landlord. They have two weeks to clear out. Josie refuses to allow this to happen, hoping they can get it declared as a landmark. However, Chubby isn’t convinced it would do much good. Every day, another historical landmark disappears. He tells Josie that he’ll understand if she starts looking for a new job.
Celebrating Pepper's investment
The roommates celebrate Pepper, who finally found a space for the Pepper Plant, a place where creatives like themselves can congregate to make magic. Josie then tells them how Chubby’s Record Shop is closing next week. What it needs is someone who can save it, Pepper comments. Josie does know Alexander but that would mean getting entangled with the Cabots. She remarks those siblings are more drama than Cheryl and Jason Blossom. If it all goes to hell, at least Josie has them to comfort her. Jorge then reveals that he’s leaving New York. He booked the role for Jefferson. Perhaps after a year or two, it could lead to a role in the Broadway production. And the bus leaves tomorrow. Pepper takes this opportunity to ask if she can sublet his room while he’s gone, claiming that a pipe burst in her room at The Palace. Jorge gives her the room and invites them to attend Ginger’s farewell performance at Molly's Crisis.
Josie and Katy enjoy Ginger's performance
That evening, Josie, Katy, Pepper, and Alexander watch as Ginger performs Million Reasons on the stage, but he becomes overwhelmed with emotion and runs backstage. Katy, Josie, and Pepper follow him into the dressing room. He explains that while performing, he looked out into the crowd at Katy and became undone. Josie surmises this is about Broadway. Jorge explains that he wanted to be on Broadway since he was a kid. If he’s going to give up his life in New York, it has to be worth it. He feels as if he’s running away and taking the easy way out, which isn’t him nor Ginger. So, Jorge decides to stay. He recalls giving Pepper his room, but she tells him not to worry about it. She’ll simply check into her room at the Waldorf.
Josie finds out Alexandra is Chubby's owner
The following day, Chubby thanks Josie and Alexander for saving his shop. Alexander expresses his pleasure in being apart of it all and promises to keep the integrity of the store intact. And maybe on Josie’s days off, she’ll agree to come record with Alex, he hopes. They are interrupted by Alexandra, who’s come to survey their latest acquisition. Alexandra admits it’s a good block, but they’ll have to sell something with better margins. Josie warns Alexandra against selling the shop. Alexandra then introduces herself to Chubby as Senior VP of Cabot Entertainment and the owner of Chubby’s.[4]
Pursing a Relationship with Alex
Josie is getting ready to go to work and asks if anyone has seen her Punkin's visor. Katy finds it under KO’s gym bag and hands it to her before Josie leaves.
Josie hooks up with Alex
At Chubby's Record Shop, Josie hooks up with Alex. She wants to know when new songs will be recorded and Alex tells her that she wants to hear something new, what New York City has inspired in her. Alex invites Josie over to his place on Friday. Josie accepts, not realizing that that day is also Valentine's Day.
The oven accident
At home, Katy informs Josie and the girls that she met Alexander at Lacy's and was buying sexy lingerie. Katy thinks it's a gift for Josie, but she denies and insists they're just friends. Jorge thinks Alexander wants something more, but Josie believes it's a distraction from her musical career. Plus, Alexander would like to hear something fresh by Friday and she's screwed. The conversation passes on to others. Pepper doesn't "do romance, but she has sex on Saturdays" while Jorge is forced to spend it alone because Buzz is still in the closet with his colleagues. The housemates are alarmed by the smoke coming from the kitchen. KO started preheating the oven because he wanted to cook lasagna, but Jorge's clothes were in the oven! While trying to get them out, Jorge burns himself.
Firefighters secure the apartment, and KO cleans the mess in the kitchen while Josie and Jorge roll their eyes behind him. Katy notices him and Jorge explains that although he loves KO, Katy hasn't even asked if it was okay for him to move into the apartment.
Playing the guitar at Chubby's
The following day, Josie is playing the guitar at the store, and is approached by a customer named Jimmy Dodger, who’s searching for a Bob Dylan record. Josie moved that to staff favorites, explaining that she is staff. He likes her tastes and introduces himself. Josie tells Jimmy how Bob Dylan suffered from depression during his writing. Jimmy's well aware, telling Josie that he’s a songwriter, clutching to the fantasy of living at the Chelsea Hotel. Josie needs help with the song she was just playing and asks Jimmy if he would be willing to help her write it. Jimmy agrees to help her with her song tomorrow so long as she helps him with his Bob Dylan rip-off. Josie has plans with Alexander but cancels them to make room for Jimmy, agreeing to meet him tomorrow at closing.
Josie advises Katy to be honest with KO
Later, Josie and Katy drag a punching bag across four flights of stairs to their apartment. It's Katy's Valentine's Day gift for KO. Katy asks Josie if she thinks the gift would make up for missing his big match. Although she intended to ask for the night off, Katy does not want to miss the opportunity to meet some famous fashion designers. Josie replies that he should tell the truth to KO, but Katy is afraid to hurt him given the recent bad turn taken by their relationship. Josie still advises her to have an honest conversation with KO.
Josie discuss with Alex
On Valentine's Day, Josie meets with Jimmy at Chubby's to work on the song together as agreed. He plays the guitar and she sings. Alex arrives with dinner and is annoyed to see Josie with Jimmy. Josie calls him out on it, saying that he sounds like a jealous boyfriend when they are supposed to make a record together. Instead, Alexander often shows up at her workplace, unannounced, bringing dinner, and even buying expensive clothes from Lacy's. Alex denies that the gift was for his sister as they always buy each other Valentine's Day gifts. Josie is taken back by it but insists that she and Jimmy are just working on a song together. As proof, she tells Alex to listen to his demo and give his professional opinion.
Discussing their love lives
That evening at Molly's Crisis, the girls talk about their disastrous day. Katy reveals that she had a huge fight with KO, and he is not answering his phone. Jorge tells Katy to be grateful that KO showed up at all for her, as Buzz didn't come for him. The girls each take a shot, and Josie reveals that Alex got the robe for his sister. She, then, reveals that she has had no chemistry with anyone since Archie Andrews. While Ginger performs on stage, the girls plan to kill Buzz for missing it. Josie jokingly proposes to bury him in Riverdale, where nobody will find it.
Comforting each other
The girls return to the apartment to lick their love wounds. Buzz shows up with chocolates, but Jorge sends him away saying he never wants to see him again. As they eat the chocolates, Pepper and Katy say to Jorg that he will find the right guy for him, while Josie suggests Katy to do something big for KO, making room for both.
Josie and Alex working together
Josie meets with Alexander at Chubby's and they discuss the nature of their relationship. Josie admits that she can't concentrate on her music because he distracts her, and Alex says he isn't able to compartmentalize. Despite his growing feelings for Josie, he will only be her manager from now on. He then says he listened to Jimmy's demo, and he loves it. They then proceed to work on her song.
Later, Jimmy arrives at Chubby’s, where Josie gives him a "free-day-old" doughnut from her other job. Unfortunately, Jimmy has come to tell Josie that they can no longer write songs together. He got offered a contract to compose music for TV and radio with Cabot Entertainment. He was offered the deal by Alexandra!
The girls walking to the Engine 141
That evening, Katy, Josie, Ginger, and Pepper arrive at Engine 141. They’ve brought sandwiches for the firemen to show their appreciation for saving their apartment. Bernardo, the firefighter who medicated Jorge's burns, arrives and Ginger personally thanks him and asks him out for a drink.[5]
Career-Focused Woman
The girls are worried about Katy
Josie, Pepper, and Jorge are concerned about how Katy is dealing with her break up with KO. They offer a girls' night out, and they also bought Katie a new pair of sparkly red shoes. However, Katy prefers to work.
At Chubby's, Alex proposes to Josie to meet his father at his private club that night. It may be their only chance to have a meeting with Mr. Cabot. Josie is hesitant but becomes convinced when Alexander assures him that his sister Xandra won't be there.
the girls sings in the apartment
Back at the apartment, the roomies support Josie and compliment her outfits. In the meantime, they are taking advantage to update themselves on their lives. Pepper hasn't heard from Guy yet, and Katy is worried. Jorge, on the other hand, is dealing again with body image insecurities due to him recently starting dating Bernardo. Although he never made him feel uncomfortable, Jorge is feeling the same as when he grows up with his more masculine brothers. The girls comfort Jorge and then decide that Katy must also find a new boyfriend. Shortly thereafter, they start singing and dancing Dirrty at home.
Josie sings for Alex and his dad
Later, Josie meets Alexander who introduces her to his father after Josie signs an NDA. Josie complements his place. Alexander brags about how amazing of an artist Josie is and asks her to play Eye On the Sparrow. As Josie's plays the piano and sings, Alexandra interrupts and sings over Josie.
They discuss the possible resurrection of Cabot Records, but Alexandra votes against saying they must wait until they have a new household name. Mr. Cabot is not interested in her opinion, and Alexander remembers her that she should deal with Guy LaMontagne selling exclusively on her website, Caboture. Josie listens carefully, alarmed by the name. The same that Katie and Pepper are trying to bring to Lacy's. However, Alexandra has already scheduled a meeting with Guy at Studio 34. Alexandra then reveals to Josie that she and Alexander were high school sweetheart. In fact, they are step-siblings! Josie is tired of putting up with the Cabot’s dysfunctional family drama. She storms out and tells Alexander not to follow her. Josie calls Katy to inform her of what she has found out about Alexandra and Guy. Luckily, Pepper has access to the nightclub.
The girls at Studio 34
That evening, the girls go to Studio 34. Josie, then, tells Pepper that she signed an NDA, and therefore, she can't write about this in her column. They circle around the back of Studio 34, where they're greeted at the backdoor by Claude. While Jorge meets with Bernardo, Katy, and Josie devise a plan to lure Alexandra away from Guy. Josie remarks that Alexandra can't resist a chance to insult her, so she passes by Guy and Alexandra, gaining the latter's attention. As Alexandra follows behind Josie, Pepper takes this opportunity to introduce Guy to Katy, who she begs to hear her out.
Josie confronts Xandra
Alexandra accuses Josie of following her and asks if Josie can't get enough Cabot or wants to do another duet. Josie is unimpressed, realizing that Alexandra is just a jealous ex-girlfriend. Before leaving, Josie says she is a good singer, although her father doesn't think it so.
Josie joins her friends and drinks with them until Katy spots KO and follows him outside. After a short fight, KO leaves and Josie hugs Katie tightly.
The four of them go to Brunetti's for a pizza and Josie gets a call from Mr. Cabot’s office. He wants to meet her the next morning at his club. Meanwhile, Katy spots Guy and goes after him.
Afterward, while Katy is with Guy, Josie, Pepper, and Jorge return to the apartment. Later, Katy calls them to inform them how she threw up in her handbag, on her dress, and her coat. So, Guy gave her his coat. She ran to the bathroom to clean herself up and by the time she came back, he was gone. Josie tells Katy, who's laying down in the display window bed, to come home. Katy assures them that she’ll be home shortly but ends up falling asleep.
Josie meets with Mr. Cabot
The next morning, Josie meets with Mr. Cabot. Although he has no plans to reboot Cabot Records, Josie's talent is undeniable. However, talent alone isn't enough. What people really like is fire, and Josie made a fiery exit when she stormed off last night. Mr. Cabot offers to finance an EP if Josie keeps Alexander on the straight and narrow. Josie, however, is not very enthusiastic about it. Even though she and Alex had a fling, Josie is focused on her career. However, Mr. Cabot trusts that she can make it work.[6]
Confrontation with Pepper
Josie's catwalk
Katy must find the time to create three heart-dropping dresses for the looming application at the Parsons fashion school. Josie, Jorge, and Pepper help her, trying on numerous outfits in the apartment. Despite everything, Katy is discouraged because the only way she has to attend, if she is to be accepted, is through a full scholarship. But the last recipient had a hand-written letter by Tom Ford. Pepper suggests having one from Gloria. Jorge reminds Josie that he still owes him money for the cable bill. Even with two jobs, Josie still struggles, and then she never even turned the TV on. Why should she pay for cable TV? Jorge retorts that this is "very Marci of you", but then he doesn't say who she is. Meanwhile, an incoming polar vortex has New York City on standby for the next 24 hours. It threatens to shutter transport, close roads, and businesses.
Josie talks with Chubby
At Chubby's, Josie and Chubby go down to the basement in hopes of finding a space heater because it's getting really cold. Chubby reveals that he used to have an indie label and that the basement was a recording studio where very famous musicians such as Patti Smith recorded there. Chubby then asks Josie what she plans to do with the money Mr. Cabot gave her to record her EP. Josie hasn't cashed the check yet. In fact, she hasn't even mentioned it to her friends or Alex because she finds it uncomfortable. Chubby replies that no one has made it in show business without paying a price.
Josie finds out about the leaked article
Upstairs, Alexander arrives at Chubby's. He's livid about the Daily Hail’s headline "Kissing Cabots!" detailing his past romantic relationship with Xandra. It’s from an anonymous source, and he suspects it’s Josie, however, she insists that she didn’t leak the story. Alex believes her. However, they need to find out who did. Josie signed at NDA and now Alex’s dad is on a warpath. Josie concludes that Pepper is the source.
Back at the apartment, Josie tells about it to Katy and Jorge and shortly after, Pepper also arrives and Josie confronts her straight away.
Josie argues with Pepper
Pepper denies all the accusations but only they were aware of the fact, and Pepper is the only one of them to be on the Daily Hail's payroll. Katy reassures Josie that Pepper is a loyal friend, and tells Pepper not to be offended because Josie had only just met her since she moved in. Jorge then discovers that they have no food. Katy suggests heading down to the bodega, but all of Washington Heights got there first, according to Josie. Jorge then gets a call from his mother, who he fears recognized him as Ginger, so he ignores her call and asks Pepper to go downstairs for recon. Josie wonders what would happen if Jorge’s parents found out the truth. Jorge explains that when he told his parents he was gay, they froze him out. They didn’t talk for months, and they’re still healing from that. Telling them that he’s now doing drag could break them again. Jorge thanks Katy for her and her mom taking him in all those years ago. Katy says it was the best year of her life. They used to stay up all night and sing show tunes. Jorge then asks Katy once again if she could find the time to make his Aida gown, however, Katy’s too preoccupied with Gloria’s dress. Josie and Jorge suddenly feel the apartment heating up.
While Josie sulks in her worries, Jorge grows impatient and, trying to sew the dress himself, inadvertently breaks Katy's sewing machine. When she finds out, she is very angry and yells at him. Josie, Pepper exit Katy’s room.
Jorge attempts to fix his mistake by buying Katy a new sewing machine from the shop down the street. However, it is extremely cold outside. Pepper warns him against it, but Jorge would rather risk his life to fix his wrongdoing than have Katy upset with him. Josie reminds Jorge of his mother, so he decides to sneak out the back. After Jorge leaves, Pepper goes to check on Katy.
Josie finds out Pepper's secret
Meanwhile, Josie investigates Pepper and calls the Palace Hotel posing as her and discovers Pepper's secret. Not only is she unwelcome at the hotel, but she also has an outstanding bill that the police have been made aware of. Pepper enters the room and Josie asks where she is living if she isn’t staying at the Palace. Josie suspects that if Pepper is lying about where she is living, she could be lying about the article. She promises not to tell anyone but demands answers. Jorge returns after failing to buy Katy a new sewing machine, as the shop was closed. He fears Katy will never talk to him again. There’s nothing he can do to fix this. He can’t just sing Aida and make it better. With that, Josie, Jorge, and Pepper come up with an idea.
The roomies dancing and singing
They interrupt Katy as she sketches her design and performs a musical number from Aida. Katy joins in and the four of them sing and dance in the apartment. They are interrupted by a knock at the door. It’s Jorge’s mom. Luisa enters the apartment to bring the sauce for the empanadas that Pepper had brought up. She asks about Jorge, who Katy claims is at Bernardo’s. Actually, Jorge’s locked himself in the closet. Inside, he notices Josie’s bag and a check sticking out. Luisa notices that the apartment is getting increasingly hot and inquires about the radiator. She offers to have Luis to come down to take a look, but Katy assures him that they’re fine and rushes Luisa out.
Josie feels like she's getting used
Josie rekindles her argument with Pepper. However, Pepper insists that she’s not the source. This time, she refers to Josie as Marci. Pepper reveals that Marci was the last girl who slept on the couch before Josie, claiming that she’s just a long line of girls sleeping on the couch for her first few months in New York. Josie questions if this is true., if this is really what the girls think of her as she thought they were friends. Katy assures her that they are. Jorge interrupts and reveals the check for $20,000 that he took from Josie’s bag, which she got from Mr. Cabot. Josie explains that she hasn’t decided if she’s going to deposit it yet. She didn’t tell them because every time she looks at it, it makes her feel like she’s being used. They all storm out in separate directions to cool off.
Josie learns the truth about Pepper's issues
Pepper proposes a truce. After talking to some editors from the Daily Hail who owed her favors, Pepper discovered the anonymous source. Tuxed C. Sebastian. It’s an alias. Sebastian is the name of Alexandra Cabot’s tuxedo cat. This means it was Xandra that leaked her own story. To what end, remains unknown. Pepper hopes with this information, Josie will trust her. Josie is still curious about Pepper’s outstanding debt at the hotel. Pepper reveals that the Palace booted her because her credit card was declined after her father froze all her accounts, as he doesn’t approve of her life in New York. Josie’s mom feels the same way about her being in New York as well. Pepper swears that she would never sell out one of her girls and gives Josie a hug. Josie reveals that the check is to fund her first EP. In exchange, Josie has to "look after Alex." Josie hasn’t told Alex yet. She promised Mr. Cabot she wouldn’t. Josie feels awful. The more she pushes Alex away, the more she cares. Pepper tells Josie that all opportunities come at a price. She then asks Josie to keep her cash flow dilemma a secret.
Josie, Jorge and Pepper support Katy
Later, after Katy and Jorge have made peace, Katy decides that it's time to open the box with her mother's belongings left at the bottom of the closet for way too long. She goes through it con her friends, and they find photos and other sentimental items. Josie says that Katy’s mom was a classic beauty, much like Katy herself. Katy recalls how men and women would always stare at her mom like she was a magical creature. Inside the box, Katy also finds fabric. Her mother planned to use it, but then she got sick. Josie suggests that Katy use it to make her garment for Gloria. Jorge tells Katy to make something that would make her happy and her mother proud. Pepper and Josie add that she should make her strongest suit with her style in mind. Without a sewing machine, Katy is forced to sew the dress by hand with help from Josie, Jorge, and Pepper.
Alex and Josie kiss
The following day, Josie meets with Alexander at Chubby’s and reveals to him that Xandra is the leak. Alex apologizes for his sister’s actions. He’ll understand if she wants nothing to do with him. However, before Josie makes any decisions, he takes her into the basement to show her the recording studio that he’s put together. Josie reveals to Alex that his dad offered to find her EP with a $20,000 advance, but she doesn’t know if she should cash it. With or without him, Alex tells Josie to cash it. Josie then kisses Alex.[7]
Josie's EP Listening Party
The girls celebrate Katy's submission to Parsons
The "fab four" are at Molly's to celebrate Katy's submission to Parsons. Katy is sad because she wanted to share that moment with her mother and KO. Josie, Jorge, and Pepper think she should pursue a new man. However, KO is the only man Katy has ever been with. Katy then asks about Josie’s EP. There’s a listening party that Alex planned at Chubby’s, but Josie still hasn’t told him that her contract stipulates that she babysit him. Rival drag queen Deveraux enters Molly’s Crisis and alerts Jorge that the Miss Washington Heights Pageant has been moved to Molly’s. The winner gets prime time. The most lucrative time at the bar.
Later, at Chubby's, Alex mixes Josie’s EP, and she is amazed by the end result. He reminds Josie of just how amazing she is and tells her that tomorrow, at the listening party, some of the top executives will see that, including his father, who’ll have no choice but to approve funding for a full album. Josie tells Alex that her mom is flying into town for the listening party. She needs everything to be perfect because if it was up to her mother, Josie would be in law school. Once upon a time, her mother supported her musical pursuit, but she no longer does, so Josie has to impress her.
Sierra arrives in NYC
Josie arrives at the apartment and reminds her friends that her mom is on the way. Moments later, Sierra arrives and greets Josie with a hug. Josie then introduces her to Katy, Pepper, and Jorge. Sierra asks them to fill her in on everything that’s going on.
Mothe and daughter go shopping at Lacy’s, where Josie informs her mother that she was only funded for an EP as opposed to a full album. And she’s not signed to a label. Mr. Cabot funded it personally. Josie lastly reveals that she’s dating Alexander and has signed a contract without allowing her mother to read it first. Sierra worries that Josie will become a pawn in their family dynamic. Josie assures her that she won’t. However, Sierra finds it hard to believe that Mr. Cabot simply cut her a check after hearing her sing. Sierra used to believe in her, Josie questions when did that stop.
Josie is anxious about the event
That evening, Josie grows anxious as she awaits the arrival of Alex. Chubby assures her that everything will go as planned. Katy arrives, and she introduces Josie to Will as a future Grammy winner. Being out with Katy reminds Will of his early days in the city, running around with a camera on his shoulder, not knowing if he was going to make it. As much as Katy likes her day job, she would rather be getting paid to design. Will retorts that Katy’s job can’t be that bad if she has a prince pinning after her. Katy insists that Prince Errol wasn’t looking at her though.
Josie and Chubby perform on stage
Her mom arrives at the listening party just in time to meet a drunk Alexander. Josie asks to talk to him in private, but Alex gets unruly and confronts Josie about dating him just because his dad paid her to. Katy, Pepper, Jorge, Chubby, and Mr. Cabot watch as this unfolds. Katy stops Josie from chasing after Alex and reminds her that this is her night and not to let anyone ruin it. Chubby welcomes Josie to the stage. Josie and Chubby then proceed to sing in front of the entire party.
Sierra is proud of Josie
After the party, Josie helps Chubby clean up the shop. He tells her to go talk to her mother as she’s the only one that Josie’s going to get. Josie presumes that her mother is going to say that the entire listening party was a disaster. However, Sierra is overjoyed and proud of Josie. She knows that Josie can handle her business, but she doesn’t like what she saw from Alex. He had no right to walk in like that. He reminded Sierra of Josie's father. She warns Josie that when you end up with someone like that, the worrying never goes away. Sierra doesn’t want that for Josie. However, she has to make her own choices and mistakes. Nevertheless, Sierra promises Josie that she’ll always be there.
At the Washington Heights Pageant hosted at Molly's, Josie joins her friends with her mom. Josie wanted to show her mom the drag scene, but Sierra tells Josie how she was in the East Village every weekend in her twenties. She’s plenty familiar with drag. Ginger, Deveraux, and the other drag queens take the stage. The special guest judge VeeVee Humble turns out to be Francois. VeeVee Humble asks Deveraux the first question. She then asks Ginger the same question but Ginger rushes off the stage.
At the Washington Heights Paegant show
For the talent portion of the pageant, VeeVee Humble welcomes Ginger back to the stage. Katy, Prince Errol, Pepper, Josie, Sierra, and Luisa cheer her on as she sings Pretty Hurts before the crowd. Deveraux tries to mess up her set, but Ginger continues her performance, much to the crowd’s amazement. However, despite her best effort, VeeVee Humble announces Deveraux as this year's Miss Washington Heights.
Later, they hit the dance floor as Josie is a little embarrassed by Sierra having fun with them.
The next morning, Josie and Jorge are waiting outside Katy's room. They ask what happened to her prince and how was the "royal treatment." Katy admits that it was a mistake and that she got caught up in the moment. Shortly after, KO shows up at their door.
At Chubby's, Josie apologizes to Alexander for signing the contract without first talking to him. All his life, Alex has watched his dad persuade people to do things they don’t want to do. He tells Josie that she doesn’t have to apologize. Alex admits that he’s an addict. But he’s working on it. He meets with his sponsor often. Josie wishes that he would’ve told her, as she cares about him, and with or without the contract, she wants to be with him.[8]
Kiss of the Spider Woman
Josie chats with Pepper
Pepper prepares the invite list, starting with Josie at Chubby’s. She explains that she is hosting a presentation to lure investors. Josie comments that she should’ve enlisted in Pepper’s help for her listening party. While Alex does what he can, he’s not as forceful as Pepper, who asks Josie to invite Alex to the presentation in hopes that he’ll be willing to invest.
Josie calls Alex over to her apartment. He informs her that a scout from the Apollo heard her EP and has shown interest in acquiring Josie but only if she gets a few smaller gigs under her belt. Alex is working on that, but he is still very much unknown in the music industry. Josie hopes she can help with this dilemma by suggesting that he invest in Jorge’s musical, "Kiss of the Spider Woman." Alex happily agrees.
At the performance, Josie attends with Alex, Katy, Xandra, KO, and several investors. However, the show is not well received and many of them left the room during Jorge's solo performance, judging it too self-centered.
Josie and Jorge at the apartment
That evening, Katy enters the apartment to find Jorge and Josie in the kitchen. She relays to them her current dilemma of the prince wanting to be with her, and Patrica wanting her to design the royal wedding dress. She asks for their advice, as designing the dress would be horrible karma. Before they can offer any advice, Jorge and Josie warn Katy as a spider drops down from the ceiling onto her shoulder. Katy panics and almost kills the spider, but Jorge reminds her that it’s a good omen.
Pepper informs Josie that Alex has agreed to invest in Jorge’s musical but only if Josie agrees to be the Spider Woman. Josie is reluctant but will take up the role so long as Jorge is okay with it.
Josie's rehearsal
Josie and Jorge rehearse their lines at Molly’s, where they get into a dispute over their lines. Jorge is regretting ever allowing Josie to take up the role of Spider-Woman. However, Josie informs him that Alex got the talent booker from the Apollo to come and see her perform. Josie reminds Jorge that he has the biggest role in the show and questions why he won’t just allow her to play Spider-Woman. Jorge explains he wants his dad to see the real him as Ginger in drag. Francois interrupts with an idea.
Backstage at Molly’s Crisis, Jorge and Josie prepare for the show. Katy arrives with the costumes. As luck would have it, she has two dresses for the Spider Woman’s final look and asks who she is fitting.
Josie and Jorge perform side-by-side
Katy, Guy, Pepper, Didi, Alex, Xandra, Francois, Bernardo, Luis, and Luisa attend the show. Josie performs on stage briefly before being joined by Jorge, who is also playing Spider-Woman. The two share the stage both as Spider-Woman, concluding the show with a kiss. Afterward, they receive a standing ovation.
After the show, Josie is approached by the booking agent for the Apollo. She explains that Alex invited her and asks if Josie’s ready to do some gigs with her own music, specifically the Apollo. She promises Josie that she’ll be in touch. Josie then proceeds to thank Alex with a kiss.[9]
-03-Josie-Pepper.png){kind=link}
Josie and Pepper finds out about Jorge and Bernardo's attack
At the apartment, Josie, Pepper, and Katy learn of the attack on Jorge and Bernardo on the street. They are joined by KO and by Jorge's parents and brothers. Although they reported the assault to the police, there is not much to do without eyewitnesses. Jorge, then, reveals to his father that not only is he a drag queen, but that he has often gone around the streets dressed as a woman. Luis is angry about being the only one who didn't know this.
At Chubby's, Alex asks about Jorge, and if he wants to take a break from "Kiss of the Spider Woman." Alex is willing to cover the costs. He then reluctantly tells Josie that her performance at the Apollo is off the table as Alex’s father didn’t approve of the gig. However, he assures Josie that once his father listens to the whole EP, he’ll change his mind. If Josie can’t release the EP or play gigs, she wonders what kind of career she could possibly have. Alex promises her that he’ll get his father on board, but until then, his hands are tied.
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The fab four discuss being friendly with an ex
The "Fab four" gather in the basement of the record shop, where they assist Josie with sending out her EP to every local radio station, against Mr. Cabot’s wishes. With Josie going rogue, Jorge suggests she drop a music video, and Pepper recommends Raj Patel as the director. Katy then tells them how she wants to be real friends with KO, but Jorge, Pepper, and Josie advise her against it. While she's still friend with Archie, he's away in Riverdale. Jorge also didn't see his ex since they broke up on Valentine's Day and Pepper doesn't do romance or stay friends without benefits.
Josie thanks Raj for helping her make a music video, even without a budget. Raj retorts that sometimes the best art comes from financial constraints. His cousin owns a trucking company in Queens. Their parking lot looks out on the east river. It has a ton of production value, so he’d like to shoot the video there.
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Josie films her music video with Raj
Josie films her music video near the east river with Raj as the director. They return to the Pepper Plant, where Raj finalizes the footage. He explains to Josie that he was an assistant editor on one season of the Matchelorette, so he’s used to working fast. Raj then uploads the video online.
Katy reveals to Jorge and Josie that she invited Xandra and KO to Pepper’s party. Despite all the bad that she’s done, Katy is hoping that this will turn out to be good for all of them. Hopefully, she can get Xandra drunk and happy enough to hand over Guy’s dress. Jorge’s decided to go as himself rather than Ginger, which alarms Katy and Josie, but he claims that he simply didn’t want to upstage Pepper.
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Josie and Katy at Pepper's birthday party
At the party, Pepper and her friend Chad greet the guests, starting with Katy and Josie, who she introduces to Chad as tomorrow’s leading designer and future Tony or Grammy award winner, respectively. Alex arrives right behind them, who Chad is familiar with from Collegiate. He recalls that Alex took his spot on Varsity lacrosse. Jorge and Bernardo arrive moments later. She’s surprised that he didn’t come as Ginger.
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Josie, Jorge, and Katy learn about Pepper's past
As the party goes, Raj brings Josie a drink and tells her that they’re getting a lot of views on her music video. Xandra inquires about the video. Josie claims that she was simply helping Raj with a student film of his. Raj remarks that he hasn’t seen Xandra in a while, usually he just hears her and KO having sex through the wall. Embarrassed by his remark, he leaves. Xandra sympathizes with Josie. Too many times has her stepfather denigrated her. She tells Josie that his opinion isn’t a reflection of Josie’s talent. Despite Alex claiming that his father hasn’t listened to Josie’s EP yet, Xandra informs her that he listened weeks ago but didn’t like it. While Xandra on the other hand loved it.
They gather around the stage where Jorge proposes a toast in Pepper's honor, as she's making possible a place for artists to express themselves. Ms. Freesia also joins, and start to tell stories from Pepper's past. Her stories, however, don't match with those told by Pepper to her friends. For starters, Ms. Freesia says that Pepper was often alone at the Georgia Hotel while her dad was away for businesses, but Pepper always said her friends that she grew up in London... Pepper intervenes and says she spent part of her childhood there but then moved. Ms. Freesia then tells Chad about Jorge’s musical that Pepper produced. She missed it but promises to cheer them on during opening night on Broadway. It’s then that Xandra reveals her deal with Pepper that ensures that she will play the role of Spider-Woman should the play make it to Broadway. Alex grows upset and accuses Pepper of running a con.
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Josie talks with Alex
Later, Josie approaches Alex after learning that Xandra took down her music video for Copyright Infringement. Alex reveals that he had Josie’s video taken down. Unlike Alex, Josie’s hands aren’t tied, and she felt that she had to do something. Josie tells Alex that she knows his dad heard her EP and disliked it. She understands why Alex lied to her, but she doesn’t need protection. When Alex’s dad heard the EP, he was going to cut Josie loose, but Alex convinced him not to. Josie only gets one shot at a public rollout, and he worries that a low budget music video would ruin that and her chances to become a huge star.
Alex meets with Josie at Chubby’s to share with her the good news. While his father still isn’t a fan of Josie’s EP, Alex convinced him to look through her discography, and in doing so, he came across some old videos of Josie and her high school band, the Pussycats. Now, he has an entirely new vision for Josie. He wants her to lead the ground. Like Diana Ross started off with the Supremes and Beyoncé with the Destiny’s Child.
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The fab four and KO at the Gay Pride rally
The girls, KO, Bernardo, and Mateo, Jorge's brother, are in the crowd at the gay pride rally where Ginger is giving a speech. They’re impressed with the turnout. Pepper promises to write about it in the Daily Hail so that the whole city will know. Ginger then gives a speech. She refuses to hide and insists that the city sees them as they really are. Katy tells Ginger that she loves her and gives her a hug. Buzz arrives and reveals that he came out at work. Ginger then introduces Buzz to Bernardo. Katy, Ginger, Pepper, and Josie watch as a public transportation bus passes by with a Caboture promotional ad on the side with KO as the model.[10]
Josie and the Pussycats
Raj documents the reboot of Josie and the Pussycats
Raj is hired to document the reboot of Josie and the Pussycats. They start with the history of the Pussycats and why Josie decided to resurrect them now. She explains that it was Mr. Cabot’s idea. However, Josie is having mixed feelings. Getting the band back together makes her feel like she’s going backward to who she was in high school, and during that time, having a band brought out the worst in her. She was spending more time worrying about band politics as opposed to focusing on what truly mattered; the music. Although, she’s more mature now, so she’s certain it will be different. She and Raj then prepare for the auditions.
Josie, Alex, and Raj arrive at Chubby's Record Shop to find that Mr. Cabot has already hired two girls to fill the spots, Priscilla and Corinne. He claims they’re good singers with the help of some autotune. They’re actually models from the Caboture fashion label. Josie asks to talk to Alex in private to express her displeasure with Mr. Cabot's choices in band partners. Alex claims that his father knows what he is doing and tells Josie to give him a chance. Before leaving, Mr. Cabot informs them that they’ll have their first recording session on Friday. He refers to them as the Supremes for the next generation. Josie asks the Priscilla and Corinne what instruments they play, but they’re both without talent.
Josie plans to have an audition without Alex's blessing
Josie, Alex, and Raj head back to the apartment, where Alex promises to get the girls' lessons. Josie reminds him that they're the Pussycats and not "The Pussycat Dolls" and that she will not be dancing on top of a car in a mini-skirt. Josie demands actual musicians, not models. However, Alex argues that his father is a successful businessman who has built an empire, so they should trust his instincts. Josie suggests going through with the auditions to find actual artists to bring to the recording session on Friday. Alex advises her against it, not that this is any concern of Josie’s, who plans to go through with the auditions nonetheless.
Josie holds auditions at Molly's Crisis as planned. Alex joins her. Raj films each audition. However, none of them impress Josie. Jorge even tries out, but Josie doubts he’s truly invested, reminding him that he could barely share the stage with her for "Kiss of the Spider Woman." Jorge admits that he simply wants the stage time and proceeds to sing.
Josie welcomes Cricket to the band
Afterward, Raj inquires about Josie’s feelings towards everyone that’s auditioned thus far. Josie believes that everyone is talented in their own way but just not Pussycat material. Suddenly, she hears someone singing from the bathroom. It’s one of the girls that got on stage to audition but ran away before performing. Josie interrupts and asks why she didn’t sing on stage. She introduces herself as Cricket and explains that it’s easier for her to sing when she’s at home in front of a mirror. Josie assures Cricket that she’s very talented and the best singer that she’s heard all day. Josie then officially welcomes Cricket to the Pussycats and gives her a hug.
Alex agrees to give Cricket a chance
Raj films as Josie tells Alex how good of a singer Cricket is. Raj has the footage and offers to show Alex, but he isn’t interested. He’s worried because Cricket doesn’t have the confidence to perform on stage. Josie agrees to work with her, but they don’t have the time,. They have to show his dad that they've got something. Josie explains that as a woman in the industry, it’s hard to walk into a room and feel like your voice matters enough to be heard. With that, Alex agrees to give Cricket a chance. However, they still need one more Pussycat.
Josie finds the last Pussycat
Josie calls Trula back after watching her perform on the drums. Josie saw her protest videos online. She questions what inspires her. Trula replies that the drumbeat represents their collective heartbeat, and she’s dedicated herself to going against big companies who have forgotten their humanity. Raj asks how Trula would feel being on a label owned by Cabot Entertainment. Trula is willing to make the compromise, though she adds that she might wear a ski mask on stage.
Josie and the Pussycats first rehearsal
Josie, Trula, and Cricket practice for the first time as the Pussycats while Raj continues to document. Raj asks Alex about the Pussycat swap. He explains that his father always taught him that to succeed in business, you have to take risks. Mr. Cabot interrupts their rehearsal and asks what happened to Priscilla and Corinne. Josie’s assures Mr. Cabot that she, Trula, and Cricket sound better together, though he’s not interested in what Josie has to say. Nevertheless, Josie refuses to get rid of Trula and Cricket. When Mr. Cabot threatens to pull funding, Josie tells him to keep his money as she’d rather start over and stay true to herself than compromise the integrity of her band.
Josie and Alex kiss
At the apartment, Raj asks Josie how she feels about going out on her own with the new Pussycats. Josie admits that Mr. Cabot was right about one thing; a band will do her good. Raj asks if she will miss working with Alex. Josie admits that she will, but she would never make him choose between his family and her. Alex arrives and explains to Josie that he’s already chosen her. He refuses to allow his dad to run his life any further. And if being cut off is the price he has to pay to continue his journey with Josie, then so be it. Alex kisses Josie and tells her that he loves her. Josie reveals that she loves him as well.[11]
At the apartment, Josie introduces Katy to her stepbrother, Kevin Keller as they are about to enjoy his time in the City and watch The Stepford Wives musical. Josie teases Katy of having a sex dream, but she denies it before kicking them both out of her room so that she can get dressed for work.
Josie is bossy with Trula and Cricket
Josie and the Pussycats rehearse at the studio. However, Trula and Cricket aren’t pleased with their roles in the band. They feel like Josie’s background props and propose that Josie rearrange the song so that they can all sing. Josie reminds them that the songs belong to her, but when they start creating new material, she assures them both that they’ll be a part of the creative process.
Xandra wants to join the Pussycats
Xandra interrupts the Pussycats’ rehearsal and asks to join, however, Josie turns her down. While they may have started off on the wrong foot, Xandra wants to be a part of Josie’s building. She recalls Josie complementing her sing when she ambushed Josie’s song. Xandra explains that was simply to piss off her stepfather, as he is the one who discouraged her from music. And now that Alex has cut ties from him, Xandra plans to follow his lead. While Xandra could be a genuine asset to the group via her connections, Josie turns her away nonetheless.
Josie returns home and tells Pepper, Jorge, and Kevin how Xandra asked to join the Pussycats, all of whom agree that Josie made the right decision in turning her away. She feared that Xandra would ruin her first show. Kevin, then, reveals that Pepper is helping him with his play based on Riverdale. They then move the subject to Katy, who admits she had a sex dream involving Guy. Pepper says sex dream manifestations of varying desires, not necessarily romantic. With that said, Katy is still unsure if she should wear the dress. Jorge then reveals that he had a threesome with Bernardo and Buzz. He thought it would make him feel powerful, but instead, it's done the opposite, leaving him vulnerable. Josie encourages Jorge to draw some boundaries to regain control.
Josie's manager at Plunkin’s wouldn’t let her off for rehearsal, so she had Kevin bring them some snacks as an apology.
Josie is waiting for her Pussycats at Molly's for rehearsals, but when Trula and Cricket arrive after learning about the history of the Pussycats from Kevin, there's no rehearsal. They’ve decided that if Josie wants to sing her own song by herself, then she can do it without them.
Josie and Kevin fight
Josie blames Kevin for Trula and Cricket’s dissertation. However, he merely informed them of the history of the Pussycats. Josie has moved on from Riverdale and all the drama that came with it. She accuses Kevin of dwelling on the past and suggests that he move on too. Kevin would give anything to have Josie’s life, but he doesn’t. He still lives in Riverdale, working at Riverdale High. That’s unfortunately his life. As for Trula and Cricket, they were unhappy before Kevin spoke to them as Josie’s too controlling. Kevin accuses Josie of ignoring her past and thus making the same mistakes she did with Mel and Val. Kevin tells her that just because she’s starting up the old band doesn’t mean she has to revert back to the old Josie.
At Pepper Plant, Kevin presents a reading of his play, titled "La Bonne Nuit", set in the town of Creekdale. Katy portrays Betty. Jorge portrays Veronica. Pepper portrays Cheryl. And Josie portrays herself.
Josie asks Trula and Cricket to meet her at the rehearsal studio. She's considered their feedback and has worked them into the song. She admits that they’re just as important to the band as she is and asks them to come back.
Josie, Trula, and Cricket get dressed backstage as they prepare for their performance. They exit the dressing room to find Xandra performing their song. Katy, Pepper, Jorge, Kevin, and Alex watch in shock.
The Pussycats confront Xandra
Josie, Trula, and Cricket confront Xandra backstage for stealing their song. However, Xandra informs Josie that she recorded her songs under a deal with Cabot Entertainment, and thus they own it. Furthermore, Josie would be breaking the law if she performed any of the songs she recorded with them. Xandra tells Josie to take it as a compliment. She wrote great songs that’ll be perfect for Xandra and the Kitty Cats. And one by one, Josie will watch as each song rises on Billboard, sung by Xandra.
Josie, Kevin, Pepper, Jorge, and Katy March the L.L. initials
Katy, Josie, Pepper, Jorge, and Kevin return to the apartment. Katy offers to call KO and see if he knew anything about this, but Josie advises her against dragging him into this. Josie remarks that the good thing about cats is that they always land on their feet. Jorge also accuses Xandra of using auto-tune. Jorge admits that he may have messed up the best relationship he’s ever had. Kevin suggests that Jorge make a romantic gesture to show he cares. Josie recommends a simple letter. Katy then reveals that she plans to quit Lacy’s and stand with Gloria. Lacy’s doesn’t feel the same that it once did. She then shares with them the love letter from Leo Lacy to Gloria. He said that he would always love her. The letter is signed L.L., just like Katy’s sewing machine. She wonders if her mom and Gloria were dating the same person.[12]
Katy returns home and shares with Pepper, Jorge, and Josie just how much she’s enjoying her apprenticeship under Guy. It’s been twelve days since Jorge and Bernardo broke up, and Jorge has yet to take off his FDNY sweatshirt. He asks Katy how she gets over KO, and she replies she's not sure she did.
Josie and Alex consider Pepper's offer
Pepper asks Alex if he’s been contacted by Hannah Melvey, which he hasn’t. With that, she proposes that he invest in the Pepper Plant. She intends to accelerate the launch in order to beat Hannah. Josie is reluctant, but Pepper offers Josie and the Pussycats the spot as the Plant’s house band. Alex worries that not enough people know about the Pepper Plant, which she intends to change.
While Alex wants to help Pepper, he’s skeptical. Josie agrees that she can be extra, but no one has more hustle than Pepper. Now that Alex is cut off from his dad, he needs to be more cautious about his spending. Should he invest, what money he has will be fully invested in the Pepper Plant. Alex insists that Pepper guarantees the Pussycats the position as the house band.
Josie and Pepper make plans for the Meta Gala
Pepper and Josie bring Katy something to eat while at work. Josie reveals that Alex has agreed to invest in the plant only if Pepper guarantees that the Pussycats will be the house band, which she does. Josie hasn’t forgotten about the Palace hotel incident nor how Pepper went behind their backs and promised Xandra the Kiss of the Spider Woman role, making them hesitant to get in business with her. Pepper promises that Alex will get every bit of his money back. And with that said, Josie hands Pepper the check. Katy joins them and explains just how difficult work has been as they prepare for the Meta Gala. She takes her food and leaves. Pepper then fills Josie in on her plan to bring notoriety to both the Pussycats and Pepper Plant.
Josie returns to the apartment after rehearsal with the Pussycats, during which time they laid down their first new track. She notices Pepper and Jorge labeling and packaging bottles of water. It’s all part of her plan to expose the Pussycats and Pepper Plant to the world. She asks Josie if it would be alright if she called her mother for legal counseling.
Josie and the Pussycats performs at the Meta Gala
Pepper lets Josie, Cricket, and Trula in through an emergency exit. The Pussycats set up their equipment and perform their brand new song in front of the entire Meta Gala, interrupting Xandra’s own reveal of her band. She and KO leave as Katy and Pepper cheer Josie on.
Josie, Cricket, and Trula celebrate after their performance at the Met Gala. The Pussycats are trending. Alex interrupts and reveals that Pepper has been lying to all of them.[13]
Josie argues with Alex
At the recording studio, Alex wants to address the fact that Pepper has been embezzling money. He invested in Kiss of the Spider Woman because he thought it was going to be a breakout role for Josie, but now he finds out that his money actually went to the Pepper Plant. Alex is being advised by his lawyers to go to the police, but Josie manages to talk him out of it. Alex worries that Pepper will screw him over, leaving him without any money. He starts to contemplate if he should call his father, but Josie warns him against it. She fears that Pepper may be in trouble, so she wants to talk to her first before Alex does anything.
Josie returns to the apartment, where Katy and Jorge wait for her so that they can have their "roommate meeting". Jorge reveals that his parents have been undercharging them for years. Subsequently, they’re behind on their mortgage payments and the bank is threatening to foreclose. Jorge refuses to be the reason for them losing the building. He also doesn’t want to make them feel like he owes them anything. Jorge needs more money fast, but he can’t even take on more gigs as Ginger because Molly's Crisis is now doing go-go boys nights. Pepper claims that she would offer to help but her money is tied up in the Pepper Plant. Katy offers to get him a job at Lacy's.
Josie talks to Pepper
At Chubby's, Josie tells Pepper than Hannah Melvey revealed to Alex that she is nothing more than a scammer and con artist who cooked the books for Kiss of the Spider Woman, and now Alex wants Pepper to reimburse him for both his investments immediately. Pepper explains that the money has already been invested. As for Hannah, Pepper admits that they were once married. She claims that Hannah used to mean a lot to her, but Pepper was conned by her. Pepper offers to have her chief financial officer show Alex the ledger if it’ll calm his nerves. All Pepper asks is that Josie doesn’t tell Katy or Jorge. Josie offers her help, assuming that Pepper is in trouble, but she insists that she’s fine. On her way out, Josie tells Pepper that Alex wants his money back, or else he’s calling the cops.
Josie helps Raj prepare for the opening of the Pepper Plant. She asks if Raj has noticed anything off with Pepper because she’s worried about her. Josie then asks if Pepper ever tried to borrow money from him. Raj reveals that Pepper attempted to get him to make up with his family so that she could gain access to his inheritance money. However, she came clean and apologized. Lastly, Josie asks where Pepper has been living.
Josie reveals what she knows about Pepper
At the apartment, Katy calls Pepper, but she doesn’t answer. Katy fears that Pepper has been lying to them about everything. Josie worries that Pepper might be in trouble. She reveals that not only is Pepper married but that Alex discovered that Pepper was skimming from Jorge’s Kiss of the Spider Woman production, approximately 90% of the investment. Katy wonders why they’re just now learning of this. Josie explains that the last time she came for Pepper, they all ganged up on her, so she didn’t say anything because Pepper asked her not to. Josie goes on to say that during the polar vortex, she discovered that Pepper got kicked out of the Palace Hotel. Josie learned from Raj that Pepper has been living at the Plant. Jorge recalls Pepper telling him that there wasn’t enough money in the production to pay them. Katy comes to Pepper’s defense, assuring them that she’s not a thief, however, Jorge does a google search of Pepper only to turn up a mugshot of her, using the alias Rosemary Woodhouse.
Josie, Jorge, and Katy want the truth from Pepper
Pepper arrives at the apartment, where she is confronted by Katy, Josie, and Jorge. He shows her the mugshot he found online. Pepper claims that were merely the result of a drunk and disorderly at a bar. Rosemary is simply a fake ID she used in London. Jorge then confronts her on embezzling the money from Kiss of the Spider Woman into the Pepper Plant. Pepper looks to Josie and accuses her of lying. Katy then proceeds to confront Pepper, demanding that she be honest with them. Pepper simply claims that she’s an entrepreneur and everything she’s done was to benefit them as well as the Pepper Plant. Katy asks if she stole the diamond purse. Pepper admits that she did, however, she no longer has it in her possession. Katy worries that she’ll lose her job, but Pepper reassures her that Lacy’s has insurance. Katy reminds Pepper that unlike her, she has a real job and people to answer to. Pepper questions why Josie is doing this to her. Josie explains that she’s simply trying to help, but Pepper feels as though she’s being attacked. She promises Katy to get her purse back and tells Josie to tell Alex that she’ll get him his money.
After Katy went after Pepper in the hallways, she comes back to the apartment, where Jorge and Josie comfort her. She suddenly grabs her jacket. It appears this confrontation with Pepper has made her realize that she’s done allowing people to take advantage of her. She intends to confront Guy for stealing her design.
Jorge reveals that Pepper paid their mortgage
Sometimes later, Jorge reveals to Katy and Josie that they’ve got three months to find a new place to live. Jorge then tells them that it was Pepper who paid off his family’s overdue mortgage payments. Josie presumes that instead of paying Alex the money back, she gave it to Jorge. She chose friendship over the Plant. Katy still doesn’t forgive Pepper as she’s yet to return the purse, and she’s been lying to them. Admittedly, Pepper lied, but Josie reminds them that Pepper is always there for them when they need her. It’s going to take some time before they can forgive her, but Josie at least wants to be there for the opening of the Pepper Plant.
Pepper kept her promise to the Pussycats
Katy, Jorge, and Josie arrive at the Pepper Plant. Pepper takes them on a tour of the Pepper Plant, starting with the stage, which as promised, belongs to the Pussycats, who have been guaranteed a spot as the house band. Then, Pepper takes Jorge to the area where his performance as the Spider Woman is projected onto the wall for all those in attendance to see. Lastly, Pepper has a fashion designer portion sectioned off specifically for Katy; an area filled with her own designs. She asks if Katy can ever forgive her.
Josie, Katy, and Jorge watch Pepper getting arrested
While preparing for their performance, Josie is approached by Alex, who has been drinking. He reveals to Josie that he became a majority stockholder in the Pepper Plant, making it a Cabot asset. Josie realizes that Alex is working for his dad again and wonders what it cost him. Trula and Cricket arrive as they are near their performance. Josie and the Pussycats perform on stage when a detective and two officers enter the Pepper Plant and place Pepper in handcuffs. Katy, Jorge, Josie, the Pussycats, Raj, Alex, and Gary watch helplessly as Pepper is taken away.[14]
Josie and Jorge pay Pepper's bail
Josie and Jorge help Pepper getting released from the New York Police Department. They inform her that the Plant made more than enough to cover her bail. After she called, they raided the bar for her bail money. Pepper asks about Katy, who didn’t show up.
Jorge calls Josie after he hears Xandra and the Kitty Cats playing over the radio, who returns to the apartment just in time to hear her song being sung on the radio by Xandra.
Josie confronts Xandra
Josie arrives at Chubby’s to confront Xandra for stealing her song. She is approached by Chubby, who isn’t thrilled that his shop has been turned into a personal advertisement for Xandra and the Kitty Cats. Josie assures him that she’ll handle it. Josie then confronts Xandra in the recording studio. Josie thought that Xandra dating KO would make her a nicer person, but Xandra reveals they broke up. She then tells Josie that Alex is using drugs again. While he won’t talk to her, Xandra hopes he’ll talk to Josie.
At the apartment, Katy reveals to Jorge and Josie that Guy offered her the role of the lead designer at House of LaMontagne. As someone who had her art stolen, Josie advises Katy against it. However, Katy is still unsure given that Lacy’s is closing. Josie then tells Jorge and Katy that Alex is relapsing. It’s at moments like this that sometimes she wonders where she would be if she never met Alex. She’d likely be at the bottom, but at least her voice would belong to her. Katy sympathizes, explaining that she often wonders what her life would be like if she accepted KO’s proposal. On the same note, Josie reveals that Xandra and KO broke up. Katy asks about Pepper. She isn’t quite ready to forgive her.
Josie finds cocain in Alex's coat
Josie calls Alex over after noticing that he was drinking at the Pepper Plant. From past experiences with her dad, Josie knows that one drink is too many. So, she questions what’s on Alex’s mind. He claims that going back to get help from his dad triggered him, but he hasn’t had a drink since. However, he’s tired of the same old back and forth with his family. He proposes that he and Josie move away together to Los Angeles, where he has connections. His nose starts to bleed and he rushes out. Josie notices that he left his coat behind and inside the pocket, she finds a large bag of cocaine.
Josie and Xandra meet with Alex in the park. Alex becomes upset, suspecting that his father put them up to this. Josie insists that this is her own doing. They’re simply trying to help Alex after finding cocaine in his coat. Josie and Xandra hope that he’ll go back to rehab as they have a car waiting for him.
Josie refuses Xandra's offer
Xandra stops by Chubby’s, as Josie cleans up her Xandra and the Kitty Cats merchandise. She came by to thank Josie for helping get Alex into rehab and wants to repay her. Xandra offers Josie a position in her band. Josie’s entire life, she’s imagined the day she’d turn on the radio and hear one of her songs, and of all the things that Xandra has taken from her, stealing her song hurt the most. Josie reminds Xandra that she has her own band and she intends to reach success with them. However, there is one thing that Xandra can help with. She tells Xandra to come to the Miss Subway coronation.
Josie, Pepper, and Katy at Miss Subway
The city gathers for the Miss Subway coronation at Riverside Park. Katy, Pepper, Josie, Xandra, Bernardo, Buzz, Francois, Luis, and Luisa attend. Deveraux crowns Ginger as the next Miss Subway. Jorge’s parents moved to the Heights with nothing but two suitcases. They left everything else behind. Washington Heights is the last place where they can afford to live. Ginger asks that they all sign the petition to stop the developers. Ginger, Luisa, VeeVee Humble, and Deveraux proceed to dance and sing.
The girls at Katy's show
Josie and the Pussycats perform at the fashion show set up at the Pepper Plant by Katy for all Guy's former apprentices. Later, Pepper, Jorge, and Josie congratulate Katy. While this is the best news she’s received all year, all she wants to do is share it with KO. Katy now realizes that she wants him back. Raj interjects and informs Katy that she’ll have to be quick because he’s moving to Philly after accepting the offer to train at Joe Frazier's gym.
Pepper and Josie discuss how she helped Alex get back into rehab and is newly single with no music career or any songs to call her own. Given that Pepper has helped Jorge and his family, as well as Katy with her fashion show, Josie asks Pepper to be her manager.
Pepper, Katy, Josie, and Jorge walk down the street of New York as Katy explains how she couldn’t tell KO how she truly felt because she didn’t want him to give up her dream because of her. Josie proposes that they all vow to stay single for at least a year so that they can pursue their dreams.[15]
Physical Appearance
Josie is a young lady with rich, brown skin, dark brown eyes, and thick, bouncy, curls. She's naturally very slender, and flaunts her body shape confidently, often dressing like a celebrity. Her clothes are similar to rock star-inspired styles and she's often seen sporting leather jackets along with her trademark Pussycat ears. However, since leaving the Pussycats and going solo, she has refrained from wearing the Pussycat ears.
Personality
Josie is both zealous and talented. She is the lead singer as well as the guitarist for Josie and the Pussycats. She thrives to exceed and be the best, especially with both parents watching over her shoulders at every turn. Her mother encouraging her to succeed and to embrace herself as a powerful and successful woman of color, while her father on the other hand, shows very little interest in her musical aspirations, looking to it as nothing more than "pop music" and child's play. Because of this, she tries even harder to impress him and gain his approval.
Josie is also a very loving and caring person to the people she loves and cares about. At times she's not perfect, as when she gets frustrated, she tends to take it out on others. As to the time when her father was in town, she ended up taking her anger out on Valerie, resulting in Valerie leaving the band temporarily. However, Josie can also be very soft and caring towards those she cares about. Upon moving to New York City, she has formed a strong bond with Katy, Pepper, and Jorge.
Relationships
Cheryl Blossom
- Main article: Cheryl and Josie
Josie and Cheryl by the lockers
Josie and Cheryl had become really close over the years. They always care for each other and have shown that they'd do anything for each other. Josie often does favors when Cheryl asks her. As a favor to Cheryl, Josie agreed to assist Archie with his music. Josie and the Pussycats also protected Cheryl after she was drugged and almost raped by Nick St. Clair. Since then, Cheryl has gone to great lengths in order to protect Josie and repay her for saving her. Both Josie and Cheryl have referred to the other as "My girl" due to their close friendship.
Sierra McCoy
- Main article: Josie and Sierra
Josie standing alongside her mother who is resigning from office over a live broadcast
Josie has a close-knit relationship with her mother. They care deeply for each other, as a mother and daughter would. Their relationship is more developed than Josie's relationship with her father. Even though Sierra may be strict toward her daughter, it is only for her Josie's benefit. She pushes her to achieve her goals and is proud of her for her accomplishments, such as the band, Josie, and the Pussycats. Their bond strengthened due to threats her mother received during her mayoral campaign. During that time, they came together as a unit.
Myles McCoy
Josie's relationship with her father is rather complicated. The two of them are not close due to the fact that her father is often on the road given his career as a professional jazz player. To make matters worse, Myles is quite hard on Josie, generally putting a lot of pressure on her regarding her musical choices and career. Because of this, Josie tries even harder to please him, but he remains to be unimpressed, despite her best efforts. This is proven when he left the 75th annual Variety Show during her performance with her the Pussycats, which he views as child's play and Pop music, though Josie insists that it's more. Despite his views on the Pussycats as a group, he values Valerie talents, who he believes to be the real deal, as she provides the group with some much-needed integrity.
Valerie Brown and Melody Valentine
Melody, Josie, and Valerie
Josie, Valerie, and Melody have been close friends for years. The three of them made up the highly ambitious rock band, Josie and the Pussycats. They met and befriended each other while working at Power Records, where they used to practice together. One day, Josie came up with the idea of calling themselves the Pussycats after showing up to practice with cheap cat ears from the Halloween store. Valerie temporarily left the band after Josie and she had a dispute but they eventually worked it out and found their way back to each other. However, this dispute pales in comparison to the one that followed after Valerie and Melody learned that Josie was starting on her solo career and was leaving the Pussycats. Unfortunately, the ladies have not spoken to each other since.
Chuck Clayton
Josie and Chuck dancing at Pop's
While Chuck and Josie may not have come in close contact, Chuck took a liking to her. When he entered the music room, he was amazed by her voice. However, Josie didn't return the warm greetings as she knew his past with women and would never date a "chauvinist, misogynistic, harasser of woman," such as himself. As Josie was leaving school, she came across Chuck and allowed him to give her a ride home, but not before they stopped at Pop's. Even though Josie insisted that they weren't on a date, they did bond more than they ever had before. Chuck claimed that he'd changed for the better. However, Sierra wasn't happy to find them together. The following day at school, Josie received a disturbing message from a mysterious admirer, assuming this was Chuck's doing, she confronted him at the library, resulting in him getting escorted to the principal's office.
Archie Andrews
Josie and Archie after getting romantically involved
Josie and Archie grew up in Riverdale together. Their relationship originally started out as a small rivalry between musicians, as Archie, who was looking to rise as an up-and-coming songwriter, hoped that Josie would assist him in doing just that. While Josie on the other hand, who is an established musician in her own right, wasn't willing to help him achieve his aforementioned goal. However, their relationship later evolved into a friendship after the pair bonded over their love of music, which resulted in Archie performing alongside the Pussycats. Josie also came to Archie's aid and helped get him clean. The two later began a relationship after Archie supported Josie during her time of need, but broke up when Josie left town to pursue her music career.
Veronica Lodge
- Main article: Josie and Veronica
Josie and Veronica singing together at Veronica's confirmation
Josie's friendship with Veronica kicked off after Veronica joined the Pussycats as a temporary replacement to Valerie. They bonded over personal family drama, specifically issues with their fathers. After Veronica became an official part of the family business, Josie became distant with her after her mother forbade her from hanging out with Veronica, explaining how she didn't like the way the Lodge family conducted their business. However, after the two families sat and talked it out, Veronica and Josie performed together at Veronica's confirmation ceremony. However, upon learning from Ethel the truth behind the Lodges, Josie parted ways with Veronica. Much later, Josie helped Veronica and Toni find information about Cheryl, which caused their rocky relationship to steady.
Kevin Keller
Josie and Kevin watching Ethel pour a milkshake on Veronica
The friendship between Josie and Kevin has grown since the two of them discovered that their parents were having an affair due to Josie's father constantly being on the road and Kevin's mother being overseas. Sharing nearly identical household drama, the two have begun to spend more time together both in and out of school, such as sitting together at lunch and going to the movies. Before then, Josie and Kevin had very little interaction though they always appeared to be friendly towards one another given that they ran within the same circle of friends.
Reggie Mantle
Josie and Reggie sit next to each other in the student lounge
Josie and Reggie grew closer while students at Riverdale High. Their relationship didn't take off until the night they both attended Nick St. Clair's party at the Five Seasons, where they took Jingle Jangle together before making out. Later, after being exposed to using Jingle Jangle during the aforementioned party, they were sent to do community service in Pickens Park, where Reggie seemed to take an interest in Josie. They later joined forces to run for Student Body President and Vice President. After they decided to leave the campaign, each with their own reasons, they've since remained close.
Sweet Pea
Josie and Sweet Pea at Cheryl's end of summer party
After Archie is arrested, Josie and Sweet Pea start a summer fling with one condition: a 3-month expiration. Sweet Pea wished for more, but Josie declined his offer as she needed to remain focused on music. It was, however, revealed that Josie and Sweet Pea kept hooking up despite their fling's initial expiration date. Josie asked Sweet Pea to accompany her as her date in Sierra’s and Tom’s forthcoming wedding. Sweet Pea, who wanted a real relationship with Josie, declined her invitation as she didn't want a serious relationship. During the party at the Sisters of Quiet Mercy compound, organized by Evelyn Evernever, Sweet Pea spotted Josie and Archie having an intimate moment. Deeply hurt, Sweet Pea spilled the secrecy of Josie and Archie’s relationship.
Katy Keene
Josie and Katy
Josie met Katy through Veronica, who was friends with Katy prior to moving to Riverdale. Josie was welcomed by Katie with open arms. They became fast friends upon her moving in with Katy and Jorge. Despite just having met Josie, Katy had become very protective of her. Katy posed as Josie's manager when she planned to meet with Alex to talk about possibly representing her. And though, they've had disagreements, their bond has only continued to grow.
Alexander Cabot
Josie and Alex
Josie first met Alex while she was performing in a park. He noticed her talent and approached her with an opportunity to record in a studio and realize her dreams. Alex hoped that Josie could help him relaunch the Cabot Entertainment record label. However, Josie was turned down by the board, primarily Xandra. From there, Alex became Josie's manager and began investing his own time and money into her as he truly believed in her. This lead to a blossoming relationship that ended with Alex being checked into rehab as his substance addiction began to manifest.
Alexandra Cabot
Xandra and Josie
Josie's first encounter with Xandra was at the studio, where she was turned down by the Cabot board. Though she admits that Josie has a nice voice, she didn't wish to re-launch the record division behind Josie as her talent wasn't "undeniable." Xandra's dislike for Josie comes from her relationship with Alex, for who Xandra still harbors feelings for him. Due to resolved feelings, Xandra and Josie engaged in a back and forth battle between, often instigated by Xandra. From there, Xandra continued her pursuit to derail Josie by buying Chubby's Record Shop, thus making Josie her employee. Her biggest move against Josie was arguably stealing her song and Josie and the Pussycats, and re-branding the group as Xandra and the Kitty Cats.
Appearances
Katy Keene
Season 1
- "Chapter One: Once Upon a Time in New York"
- "Chapter Two: You Can't Hurry Love"
- "Chapter Three: What Becomes of the Broken Hearted"
- "Chapter Four: Here Comes the Sun"
- "Chapter Five: Song for a Winter's Night"
- "Chapter Six: Mama Said"
- "Chapter Seven: Kiss of the Spider Woman"
- "Chapter Eight: It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)"
- "Chapter Nine: Wishin' & a Hopin'"
- "Chapter Ten: Gloria"
- "Chapter Eleven: Who Can I Turn To"
- "Chapter Twelve: Chain of Fools"
- "Chapter Thirteen: Come Together"
Trivia
- Josie is named after the famous French singer Josephine Baker.
- She has defied her mother's wishes multiple times despite being constantly reminded to not forget their branding; Divas of color. Josie allowed Cheryl to perform alongside the Pussycats and also decided to accompany Archie at singing his song at the jubilee.
- Josie did not seem to have to audition for a position on the River Vixens, as Cheryl had introduced her as a new member almost immediately.
- Josie is the first character to appear in both Riverdale and Katy Keene.
- In Archie Comics, Josie is a short-haired redhead and her surname was either given as Jones or James until the Archie Comics acknowledged the surname McCoy as canonical after the 2001 film by Harry Elfont and Deborah Kaplan, loosely based on both comics and Hanna-Barbera Productions animated versions.
- Josie's date with Chuck Clayton at Pop's shoppe in "Chapter Twenty: Tales from the Darkside" is reminiscent of the one she had with Reggie Mantle in the fifth issue of Riverdale comics.
- However, and notably, in the Archie Comics, Reggie had a crush on Josie, much like his counterpart in the series.
- In the Archie Comics, Josie McCoy and Alexandra Cabot are rivals because Alexandra is extremely jealous of Josie.
Gallery
- See also: Category:Images of Josie McCoy
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References
- ↑ Riverdale pilot fills out cast - EW
- ↑ Riverdale’s’ Ashleigh Murray Joins ‘Katy Keene’ Pilot at CW
- ↑ Aguirre-Sacasa, Roberto & Grassi, Michael (writers) & Kiley, Maggie (director) (February 6, 2020). "Chapter One: Once Upon a Time in New York". Katy Keene. Season 1. Episode 1. The CW.
- ↑ Grassi, Michael (writer) & Adelson, Steve A. (director) (February 13, 2020). "Chapter Two: You Can't Hurry Love". Katy Keene. Season 1. Episode 2. The CW.
- ↑ McGarry, Shauna (writer) & Jierjian, Harry (director) (February 20, 2020). "Chapter Three: What Becomes of the Broken Hearted". Katy Keene. Season 1. Episode 3. The CW.
- ↑ Mankin, Alina (writer) & Romanowsky, Pamela (director) (February 27, 2020). "Chapter Four: Here Comes the Sun". Katy Keene. Season 1. Episode 4. The CW.
- ↑ Richardson, Leo (writer) & Shiraki, Ryan (director) (March 5, 2020). "Chapter Five: Song for a Winter's Night". Katy Keene. Season 1. Episode 5. The CW.
- ↑ Carter, Davia (writer) & Randolph, Charles (director) (March 12, 2020). "Chapter Six: Mama Said". Katy Keene. Season 1. Episode 6. The CW.
- ↑ Aguirre-Sacasa, Roberto (writer) & Gregory, Smith (director) (March 19, 2020). "Chapter Seven: Kiss of the Spider Woman". Katy Keene. Season 1. Episode 7. The CW.
- ↑ Will, Ewing (writer) & Lowrey, Jessica (director) (March 26, 2020). "Chapter Eight: It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)". Katy Keene. Season 1. Episode 8. The CW.
- ↑ Iverson, Mia Katherine (writer) & Romanowsky, Pamela (director) (April 16, 2020). "Chapter Nine: Wishin' & a Hopin'". Katy Keene. Season 1. Episode 9. The CW.
- ↑ Grassi, Michael & McNeil, Neil (writers) & Pillai, Alex (director) (April 23, 2020). "Chapter Ten: Gloria". Katy Keene. Season 1. Episode 10. The CW.
- ↑ Saedi, Sara (writer) & Thompson, Lea (director) (April 30, 2020). "Chapter Eleven: Who Can I Turn To". Katy Keene. Season 1. Episode 11. The CW.
- ↑ Yves, Evelyn (writer) & Adelson, Steve A. (director) (May 7, 2020). "Chapter Twelve: Chain of Fools". Katy Keene. Season 1. Episode 12. The CW.
- ↑ Aguirre-Sacasa, Roberto & Grassi, Michael (writers) & Kiley, Maggie (director) (May 14, 2020). "Chapter Thirteen: Come Together". Katy Keene. Season 1. Episode 13. The CW.