Archie Comics on TV: The CW Orders 'Riverdale' Live-Action Pilot!

Archie, one of the most beloved comic books of all time going on for over seven decades, is coming back to TV in a new project. The CW, already hosting multiple DC Comics-based shows like Supergirl and The Flash, has officially ordered a live-action pilot, Riverdale, based on the stories of characters like Archie, Veronica, Betty, Jughead and the rest of the gang!

According to Archie's website, the new pilot is the first bit from the comic book's grand celebration in 2016: it's been 75 years since the first time the character was published!

The new series, written by Archie Comics Chief Creative Officer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, is apparently a "subversive take" on the classic comic strip, so we can expect a darker tone than the usual one, with "small-time life and the darkness and weirdness bubbling beneath Riverdale's wholesome facade."

Interestingly enough, the show, marked as a teen drama, has apparently drawn inspiration from darker material such as The Perks of Being a Wallflower and The Virgin Suicides.

In all, it sounds a little like Pleasantville, only set in the present day instead of the 1950's.

Comic Book Resources reports that, while we won't have official announcements for a while, casting for the pilot is already underway, and it could be an interesting new take on the printed classic, even featuring actually diverse characters for once.

Of course, a pilot order doesn't necessarily mean the project will end up picked up as a series, but it seems chances are pretty high, considering the pilot is being executive produced by Greg Berlanti, whose recent hits include Legends of Tomorrow and Arrow.

The show's main focus will, of course, be the never-ending triangle between Archie Andrews, Betty Cooper and Veronica Lodge, and it'll feature the entirety of the comic books cast, including rival Reggie Mantle and gay character Kevin Keller in a "pivotal role."

Other characters from the company's library will be making appearances too, including Josie and the Pussycats.