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Beyond the Bubblegum Noir: Unpacking the Enduring Legacy of Riverdale

When the CW’s Riverdale premiered in January 2017, the world expected a wholesome, teen-centric drama in the vein of Dawson’s Creek or the early seasons of Gossip Girl. Based on the iconic Archie Comics characters, the show was supposed to be a small-town story about a red-headed kid, a milkshake, and a love triangle between Betty and Veronica.

She turned and walked out, the bell above the door chiming a lonely note. I looked back at the photo. The rain was coming down harder now, blurring the lights of the passing cars. Riverdale

The Verdict: Was It Worth the Ride?

For the casual viewer, Riverdale is a cautionary tale of narrative excess. For the devoted fan, it is a masterpiece of post-modern television. Beyond the Bubblegum Noir: Unpacking the Enduring Legacy

• Archie Andrews (KJ Apa): The show's protagonist, a charismatic and music-loving teenager who becomes embroiled in the mystery of Jason's death.
• Betty Cooper (Lili Reinhart): A sweet and wholesome student who becomes Archie's on-again, off-again girlfriend and a key player in the mystery.
• Veronica Lodge (Madelaine Petsch): A wealthy and popular student who becomes a rival to Betty and a love interest for Archie.
• Jughead Jones (Cole Sprouse): A brooding and artistic student who becomes a key suspect in Jason's murder and a close friend to Archie.
• Cheryl Blossom (Madison Lintz): A manipulative and cunning student who becomes embroiled in the mystery and develops a complicated relationship with Jughead.