Fun Facts
Archie Andrews
Debut: Pep Comics #22, cover‑dated December 1941
Created to reflect the “typical American teenager,” he quickly became the heart of the Archie universe.
Famous for being stuck between a love triangle with Betty Cooper and Veronica Lodge.
Became the lead singer and guitarist of the fictional band The Archies, whose 1969 hit song “Sugar, Sugar” topped charts.
In a 2014 storyline (Life with Archie), teenage Archie heroically died saving his friend Kevin Keller.
Betty Cooper
Debut: Pep Comics #22 (December 1941)
Portrayed from the start as the wholesome, girl‑next‑door archetype.
Inspired by a real girl named Betty that one of the creators once dated.
A talented athlete and mechanic—often shown fixing cars or pitching for her team.
Plays tambourine and sings in The Archies band.
Jughead Jones
Debut: Pep Comics #22 (December 1941)
Recognizable by his beanie “whoopee cap” with an “S” sweater and laid‑back personality.
Famous for his enormous appetite—often devours absurd amounts of food without gaining weight.
Despite the sleepy demeanor, shown to be exceptionally intelligent and witty in many issues.
Once identified as asexual in fan-favorite storylines, though later continuity softened that interpretation.
Veronica Lodge
Debut: Pep Comics #26 (April 1942)
The wealthy “rich girl” from Riverdale, often spoiling luxurious lifestyles.
Named after actress Veronica Lake, and modeled after a real wealthy family.
Famous for spending sprees—once bought out every shoe store in town just to prevent others from owning a pair she wanted.
Plays keyboards and sings in The Archies band, adding glam to the group.
Reggie Mantle
Debut: Jackpot Comics #5 (cover‑dated Spring 1942)
Known as the self‑absorbed prankster of Riverdale and Archie's main rival
Founding bassist (and occasional lead guitarist) in the fictional band The Archies, often boasted as the “most talented” member
Dreams of stand‑up comedy and has performed part‑time at local clubs
Often tries to date multiple girls including Veronica and Midge, despite Moose’s wrath—earning him the nickname “Rule‑Book Reggie” when cheating in sports too
Mr. Waldo Weatherbee (Principal Weatherbee)
Debut: Likely a cameo in Pep Comics #25 (March 1942)
Often called “The Bee” by students; he’s Archie's frequent disciplinarian with a toupee that flies off when startled
Former U.S. Marine (and u nambiguously depicted as principal since early 1940s stories), though specifics shift due to comic continuity
Deep down, he genuinely cares about the students and once allowed retirement extension after Archie organized a petition
In alternate future storylines (Life with Archie), Mr. Weatherbee marries Miss Grundy — who later passes away, leaving him a widower
Midge Klump
Debut: Jughead Comics #5 (April 1951)
Moose Mason’s longtime girlfriend; her presence often sparks Moose’s overprotectiveness and jealousy
Flirted with by Reggie throughout the decades—leading to iconic gags where Moose aggressively defends her
A talented athlete and cheerleader; also enjoys shopping with friends Betty, Veronica, Nancy, and Ethel
In Life with Archie alternate future, Midge marries Jughead and becomes pregnant with his child
Kevin Keller
Debut: Veronica #202 (September 2010)
Instantly popular: Veronica #202 sold out and was reprinted—an Archie Comics first
Enjoys big meals and becomes fast friends with Jughead over mutual foodie interests; rejects dating Veronica after coming out
Comes from a military family and later serves in the U.S. Army; featured in his own solo comic series in 2011 and 2012
Named GLAAD Media Award nominee; later appears in CW’s Riverdale, portrayed by Casey Cott