Riverdale was still filming its third season when Luke Perry, who played Archie’s father Fred Andrews, lost his life to a massive stroke. The cast and fans alike have mourned since then, and personally speaking, every time I have seen him on screen since, I have to swallow that lump of emotion pretty hard.
In tonight’s episode, “Fear the Reaper,” we get our last look at Perry portraying Fred Andrews, and according to showrunner Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, he will be imparting the words of wisdom we have all come to expect from him.
Grab some tissues people, this is going to be rough.
This week’s #Riverdale is the last episode Luke filmed. As always, Fred’s imparting words of wisdom to Archie. A beautiful, true moment between a father and his son. Wish these scenes could go on forever…❤️🏆💎👨🏻💻 pic.twitter.com/meokbvo0Wt
— RobertoAguirreSacasa (@WriterRAS) April 22, 2019
There has been no word yet from the producers or writers as to how they will ultimately deal with Fred Andrew’s departure, but given the way they have handled this painful loss, I have reason to believe they will do it in a way Perry would be proud of.
Riverdale airs on the CW tonight at 8 p.m. EST.