Luke Perry's Final 'Riverdale' Appearance Was Emotional & Bittersweet

Luke Perry's final appearance as Fred Andrews on Riverdale aired on Wednesday (April 24). Days before the episode aired, creator and showrunner Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa prepared fans for the emotional moment. "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...," he wrote.

Perry's final scene was a short, bittersweet moment with his on-screen son Archie Andrews (played by KJ Apa). In the last episode Perry filmed before his unexpected death, Fred joins Archie at the hospital to wait on word of his injured boxing match opponent, Randy. Following Randy's death, Archie feels intense guilt. Back at their home, though, Fred is there to comfort Archie after he confesses his feelings. "Son, from everything you've said, it's clear Randy died from those drugs. The autopsy will support that. You're innocent," Fred tells Archie, offering his son comfort and guidance one last time.

Riverdale fans took to Twitter to commemorate Perry, as well as his beloved character.

Since Perry's death occurred while the show was still in production, Fred's storyline on the show ends up without proper closure. Aguirre-Sacasa told Entertainment Tonight how the show plans to handle his absence in future episodes. "You know, honestly, we are I think all still in shock and are all still processing and grieving," he said. "We know that we have to address it in some way, but we’re giving ourselves a little bit of time and space before we figure out the best way to honor him."

Rest in peace, Luke Perry.

Photo: The CW


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