Betty

The CW has just announced that they have given the green light on six pilot episodes, all of which are poised to strengthen the network’s control of sci-fi and comic book properties.  One of the shows picked up is “Riverdale,” a one-hour drama based on the modern-day Archie Comics series.  Set to began principal shooting this Spring, the show will add to the already impressive, and well-received, lineup of other comic book properties, such as Arrow, The Flash, and DC’s Legends of Tomorrow.

The show will be written by Archie Comics Chief Creative Officer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and produced by Warner Brothers Studios and Berlanti Productions.  The show has been described as a subversive take on the classic Archie mythos.

According to the official Archie website, “The show will focus on the eternal love triangle of Archie Andrews, girl-next-door Betty Cooper, and rich socialite Veronica Lodge, and will include the entire cast of characters from the comic books—including Archie’s rival, Reggie Mantle, and his slacker best friend, Jughead Jones.”

Kevin Keller will feature prominently, a fairly recent addition to the series, as he has become a popular character with fans and is a positive gay model in this up-to-date comic.  Given Archie Comics extensive history, there will be opportunities for the show to use their expanded universe to introduce outside characters, such as Josie and the Pussycats.

Riverdale‘s synopsis:

“Set in present day and based on the iconic Archie Comics characters, Riverdaleis a surprising and subversive take on Archie, Betty, Veronica, and their friends, exploring the surrealism of small town life — the darkness and weirdness bubbling beneath Riverdale’s wholesome façade.”