Last Night’s Episode of ‘Riverdale’ Featured Not 1, Not 2, but 3 Farewells

After last night’s episode of Riverdale, we feel the need to address the elephant in the room—like how this week’s installment bid farewell to three main characters: Fred Andrews (Luke Perry), Josie McCoy (Ashleigh Murray) and Hal Cooper (Lochlyn Munro).

Here’s what you need to know. Chapter Fifty-Four of The CW series, titled “Fear the Reaper,” featured the three significant departures—two are permanent and one is (potentially) temporary.

First, Fred. The character made his final appearance shortly after Archie (KJ Apa) returns from the hospital. While the scene is brief, it speaks volumes about their relationship. “Son, from everything you’ve said, it’s clear that Randy [Darcy Hinds] died from those drugs,” Fred says. “An autopsy will support that you’re innocent.”

His departure is due to Perry’s tragic passing last month, which we still have yet to get over.

Next, Josie. During this week’s installment, Josie tries to impress her estranged dad by inviting him to watch her perform at La Bonne Nuit. After the show, she tells Archie that she’s dropping out of school to go on tour with her dad, so there goes another love interest.

Last but not least, Hal. At the end of the episode, Veronica (Camila Mendes) breaks some bad news to Betty (Lili Reinhart). Her dad, Hal, was in a car accident while getting transferred to Hiram’s (Mark Consuelos) new prison, and there are no survivors…or so they say.

It’s important to point out that Chapter Fifty-Four also hinted at the departure of another character, Gladys (Gina Gershon). However, her exit was far less dramatic—and convincing—than the rest. And we think she won’t stay gone for long, especially now that she’s potentially working with the Gargoyle King.

Who will depart the show next? Guess we’ll have to wait until Riverdale returns to The CW next Wednesday, May 1, at 8 p.m.