Archie releases first digital-only comic book

From Archie Comics

Archie Comics has just released an all-new holiday special Betty & Veronica Christmas Spectacular as its first exclusively digital comic book.

This new special holiday issue is Archie’s next step into the future of comic books. Archie Comics is embracing the digital medium in 2009, partnering with iVerse Media to open its online comic store archiedigital.com and also to release previously printed comics in digital versions for iTunes. The first of these releases, Archie Freshman Year #1, established Archie Comics as a grassroots digital comics leader when it quickly became the most downloaded comic book on iTunes.

Releasing an issue directly to digital may seem like the next logical move, but Archie Comics Co-CEO Jon Goldwater emphasized the company’s desire to make their first digital-only release “something unique and extraordinary.” Betty & Veronica Christmas Spectacular is certain to live up to these expectations, especially in the eyes of fans who have eagerly anticipated this issue since the Betty & Veronica Spectacular title was saved from cancellation by a fan-organized movement on Facebook earlier in the year.

Betty & Veronica Christmas Spectacular is available now in the iTunes Store for download as an app for the iPhone and iPod Touch: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/betty-and-veronica-christmas-spectacular/id334714885?mt=8

BETTY & VERONICA CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR
“Have Yourself a Cheryl Little Christmas” starring the whole Archie gang and featuring fan-favorite “bad girl” Cheryl Blossom along with appearances from familiar magical holiday characters Santa Claus and Jingles the Elf.
Story & Pencils: Dan Parent
Inks: Rich Koslowski
Full-color digital comic
$1.99

Spotted: Joseph Campanella

Looking stately and seasoned in his military uniform and considerably younger than Hutch Corrigan, Joseph Campanella kept his eyes on a menacing "Meteor" six years before he portrayed Connie Colby's faithful gentleman caller on "The Colbys."

The 1979 film features a megawatt classic-star cast, namely Sean Connery on a "Bond" break. There's also Karl Malden, Henry Fonda, Natalie Wood, and even the oh-so recognizable Michael Zaslow, so infamous as Roger Thorpe on "The Guiding Light" around that time (remember, Tammy, how we used to joke as kids about how creepy he was?!).

Campanella plays the father of an astronaut whose job it is to help mitigate the threat of the five-mile-wide meteor. His velvety voice is as smooth and respectable as ever, as he monitors the dangerous mission from the communication headquarters.

Fan gets a chance to appear in an Archie Comics story

From Archie Comics

Earlier this year, one lucky comic book fan won the opportunity to appear in an Archie Comics story in a special contest from Kids Comic Con, Time Out New York magazine and Archie Comics.

When Time Out New York Magazine’s Time Out Kids web page held a poll where kids where asked who their favorite comic book characters are, Summer chose Betty and Veronica… and now, just like her faves Summer is a part of comic book history!

In the story titled “Summer Spring Show,” Betty and Veronica babysit Summer. It soon becomes apparent that everyone’s favorite comic book teens are in for a really big show… and they’re the stars! Summer is a “showbiz kid” with a flair for the theatrical, and she literally shines the spotlight on Betty and Veronica as she engages them in interactive skits, songs and more. Summer’s debut is sure to go down as one of the most memorable “first appearances” in comics ever!

Alex Simmons, writer of this special story, has also written novels, plays and historical biographies. With all of his accomplishments, educating children remains Simmons’ #1 passion. As a guest speaker and teaching artist, he travels the country conducting creative writing workshops, and is also the Educational Outreach Director for New York City’s Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art.

In 2007, Alex launched the family-friendly Kids Comic Con, a celebration of children’s comics and their creators that is both entertaining and educational. It was at this year’s third annual convention that Summer’s winning entry was revealed.

ARCHIE & FRIENDS #139
SCRIPTS: Alex Simmons
ART: Dan Parent
On sale at comic shops: January 13, 2010
On sale at newsstands: January 26, 2010
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

Tracy Scoggins plans Anaheim con stop

Sure, she's done that "Babylon 5" thing, and there was that gig on "Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman" in the '90s. But to us, she's Monica Colby of "Dynasty" and "The Colbys," as well as Anita Smithfield of the "Dallas" realm and even some cool time on "The Dukes of Hazzard." Now Tracy Scoggins is heading to Anaheim, California, for the Anaheim Comic Con.

Con dates are April 16-18, 2010 (never too early for travel plans!) at the Anaheim Convention Center. The event is hosted by pop-culture-con heavy Wizard World. Learn more at their site.

The guest list of the con is shaping up to be quite fab, besides. Catherine Bach of "The Dukes of Hazzard" is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday. Michael York, who did voices on our beloved "Batman" and "Superman" animated series of the '90s as well as a regular role on the "Dallas" spinoff "Knots Landing," will be there. Throw in William Shatner, Adam West, Erik Estrada and a host of other classic stars, and it will be supercool.

Spotted: John Forsythe and George Hamilton

Before he ever tapped them for his lush primetime drama "Dynasty," producer Aaron Spelling put John Forsythe and George Hamilton to good use in another project, "The Users," a 1978 movie about the unsavory behavior of Hollywood.

In a script by Dominick Dunne based on Joyce Haber's novel, "The Users" is so '70s, a little slow in parts, and way-hokey in dialogue compared to today's standards. But for classic star fare, it rates big-time.

Tony Curtis as a tempermental actor rumored to be all washed up leads the way, with Red Buttons, Alan Feinstein, Joan Fontaine as the gossipy Hollywood-socialite cliche Grace St. George, Darren McGavin, a delightfully young Michelle Phillips, John Pleshette and even a Romulan we remember from classic "Star Trek," Joanne Linville! Wow. But that's not all. The one holding all the power throughout the movie is none other than one of Spelling's "Charlie's Angels," Jaclyn Smith, who as Elena Scheider looks like she drew from the very same yummy '70s wardrobe as Kelly Garrett. She's smart, she's cunning, and she pulls it all off as Ms. Small-Town Innocent as she climbs to acclaim on the arm of Curtis.

But back to John Forsythe and George Hamilton! Our future Blake Carrington (who, like Smith, was two years into "Angels" at the time) is not much younger here, but dashing as ever. His Reade Jamieson is steady and faithful and seems to be the only one who's not fooled by the petty games played in the industry -- and he certainly gets rewarded for it! To see him sharing an actual scene (you know, visually!) with his "Angels" co-star is delish.

As Adam Baker, our future Joel Abrigore is lean, suave, and confident enough, though a little bewildered and needy as a behind-the-scenes Hollywood heavy needing a big score. And yes, he's tan (you knew we had to mention that, right?).

We're guessing "The Users" didn't win any awards, but nowadays, its value is all in its vintage star appeal.

John Schneider: Who took the "Promise" out of the "Promised Land"?

John Schneider, our own Bo Duke of "The Dukes of Hazzard," has been busy as always, but in-between those numerous acting gigs he's always thinkin' about his music. He just recorded a new song he feels strongly about, and he's urging fans to spread it across the 'Net.

"The Promise" is written by Schneider's friend Phil Redrow, who played Tex in his film "Collier & Co." Redrow is "an amazing songwriter," Schneider says. "That song went right to my soul. Johnny Cash once told me that a song would find me one day that I would just have to record, no two ways about it. When I heard this song I knew it was the one the Man in Black had told me about. It's not that he knew that particular song; it was more that he knew me well enough to know that it would be an amazing song that would put me back in the studio."

Schneider continues, "Phil's song is the sad truth about what is happening in this country with the economy, the unemployment rate, the devaluing of the elderly. A song that asks a very tough question."

You can find "The Promise" on YouTube.

Besides his studio time, Schneider's latest acting work: "The last couple of months I did 'What Would Jesus Do,' shot the pilot for 'Crash Dummies' (which you will be able to see on SPIKE very soon), been working on a six-hour miniseries based on the book, 'Shadow of an Indian Star.'"

Coming up in Archie Comics

ARCHIE #603
Life has taken some amazing turns for Archie and his friends lately. What path will Archie follow next? One thing is certain: should he choose to venture back down memory lane, anything can happen!
SCRIPT: Michael Uslan
ART: Stan Goldberg
On sale at comic shops: November 25, 2009
Newsstands: December 8, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

ARCHIE & FRIENDS #137
PART ONE OF A TWO-PART STORY THAT REINTRODUCES SOME OF THE MOST MEMORABLE CHARACTERS ARCHIE EVER PUBLISHED!
"Cosmic Cosmosis Part One": Working at the Pep Comics shop to get a discount on comics and a place to store his collection, Chuck is visited by his friends as he bags and boards. Suddenly, glowing meteors from the MLJ Nebula rain down in Riverdale, including one that crashes into the shop and morphs into a door to other dimensions! This cosmic portal leads to a world that Chuck, Archie and his friends have only ever seen in comics... a world of talking ducks and bears, super-powered heroes and oddball beings from other planets. It doesn't take them long to realize they are in the presence of a veritable "who's who" of some of the greatest comic book characters ever published by Archie and its earlier incarnation, MLJ Comics: Captain Sprocket, Cosmo the Merry Martian, Squoimy the Woim, Gloomy Gus, Judge Owl, Ginger, Suzie and more! The trouble is, now that the "fantasy world" has invaded the "real world," the "fictional" characters seek as much a taste of reality as possible: Wilbur and Seymour want to meet "real" girls to date, Pat the Brat realizes there's a whole new potential audience to pull pranks on, Cubby the Bear wants to see how earth bears live, and more. On top of it all, Super Duck and Reggie get into a no-holds-barred shouting match! Realizing the veritable "Pandora's Box" situation they're in, Archie decides it would best for the comic book characters to go back through the portal to return to their own worlds... but the characters have other plans. Namely, they plan to stay indefinitely!
SCRIPT AND ART: Fernando Ruiz
On sale at comic shops: November 11, 2009
Newsstands: November 24, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

ARCHIE NEW LOOK SERIES VOLUME 3: MOOSE & MIDGE – BREAKUP BLUES
It's the third installment in Archie's dynamic "New Look" series! For years, Archie fans the world over wondered what their favorite Riverdale teens would look like if rendered in a realistic style, and in 2007, Archie Comics answered the question with the ground-breaking, pulse-pounding, media-grabbing story: "Betty & Veronica: Bad Boy Trouble!" The success of that story prompted them to create an entire "New Look" series, continuing with "Jughead: The Matchmakers!" Now, Archie Comics reprints "Moose & Midge: Breakup Blues" from PALS ‘N GALS DOUBLE DIGEST #125-128. When Midge decides to go on a date with Reggie Mantle behind Moose's back, the relationship dissolves before their friends' very eyes! Can Betty, Archie and Veronica help the two former lovebirds see the light and rekindle the flame between them? You'll never guess who comes to the rescue in this captivating story, brought to you by "New Look" scribe Melanie J. Morgan and masterfully penciled in the realistic style by veteran artist Tod Smith, with inks from journeyman talent Al Milgrom. Let's just hope Riverdale can survive the epic rift!
SCRIPT: Melanie J. Morgan
ART: Tod Smith and Al Milgrom
On sale at comic shops: November 25, 2009
Newsstands: December 8, 2009
112-page, full-color 6" x 9" square bound paperback
$10.95 U.S.

ARCHIE DIGEST #259
"Scene in Public": Ahoy, ye hungry vagabonds! Archie and his friends have a swashbucklin' good time when they visit a pirate-themed restaurant.
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Pat Kennedy
"Playing Footsie": A sprained ankle leads to all of Archie's friends competing to help him out... and he loves the attention!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Pat Kennedy
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic shops: November 18, 2009
Newsstands: December 1, 2009
88-page, full-color digest
$2.69 U.S.

ARCHIE'S DOUBLE DIGEST #204
"Prize Surprise": A mysterious prize inside a cereal box baffles Archie and his friends... and may be a bigger mystery than they realize!
SCRIPT AND ART: Tim Kennedy
"Toy Story": A visit to the toy store is a trip down memory lane... and a look into the future... for Archie's dad!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Bob Bolling
"A Class Act": The roots of the Archies band are revealed in this rockin' Little Archie tale!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Bob Bolling
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic shops: December 3, 2009
Newsstands: December 15, 2009
176-page, full-color digest
$3.99 U.S.

BETTY #183
"Close Encounters of the Clothespin Kind": Betty's friends are left "hanging on the line" when she becomes obsessed with her clothespin doll collection!
SCRIPT: Barbara Slate
ART: Stan Goldberg
"Many Magic Moments": When Betty's grandparents come over for the holidays they bring their own Christmas ornaments – each representing a magical moment in their romance!
SCRIPT: Barbara Slate
ART: Stan Goldberg
"Party Smarty": It's time once again for beloved holiday traditions: stockings, presents, mistletoe... and competing Christmas parties from Betty and Veronica!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Stan Goldberg
"Cold Spell!": The weather may be cold, but Archie knows how to warm Betty's heart!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Stan Goldberg
On sale at comic shops: December 3, 2009
Newsstands: December 15, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA DIGEST #199
"The Fame Game": The "Goodwill Girls" have become the "Green Girls!" They've set their sights on ways to conserve energy at Riverdale High and free up costs for school supplies. But Veronica's too busy trying to become a star and can't pitch in. Wait until her friends end up in the spotlight! This timely tale highlights the movement toward "no tray days" at schools across the country.
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Jeff Shultz
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic shops: November 11, 2009
Newsstands: November 24, 2009
88-page, full-color digest
$2.69 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #176
FEATURING AN ALL-NEW CHERYL BLOSSOM STORY!
"The Seventh Month Itch": With her birthday just around the corner, Cheryl Blossom is worried that her boyfriend George has developed a wandering eye... and concern turns to anger when he discovers Betty and Veronica are his "Spacebook" friends! But nothing prepares her for the surprise ahead!
SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent
"Home Theater Buzz": The unveiling of Mr. Lodge's remodeled, state-of-the art home theater creates a buzz that brings all of Riverdale's teens to his home... and that's one "buzz" he can't get out of his ears!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Pat Kennedy
"Party Time": Filled with the holiday spirit, Veronica enhances an event to feed the needy by transforming it into a feel-good, cool-yule costume party!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Jeff Shultz
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic shops: November 25, 2009
Newsstands: December 8, 2009
176-page, full-color digest
$3.99 U.S.

JUGHEAD #198
"Dine by Design": Jughead doesn't take well to the latest restaurant trend toward tiny-sized, slider-style hamburgers, and counters by launching his own new wave of designer burgers! Will his dreams of a sandwich supreme come true, or will they get "ground" to pieces like so much chopped meat?
SCRIPT: Craig Boldman
ART: Rex Lindsey
On sale at comic shops: November 25, 2009
Newsstands: December 8, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

JUGHEAD & FRIENDS DIGEST #35
"Playing Santa": When ‘ol Kris Kringle needs extra help delivering presents, Jughead trades in his trademark crown cap for a genuine Santa hat in this festive holiday tale!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Fernando Ruiz
"Fast Food": Things really get cooking when 60-minute TV chef Ethel Elray comes to Riverdale!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Tim Kennedy
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic shops: November 25, 2009
Newsstands: December 8, 2009
88-page, full-color digest
$2.69 U.S.

JUGHEAD'S DOUBLE DIGEST #155
"The Film Maker": After his experience in Hollywood last issue, Jughead decides to become a filmmaker. Will audiences "quack up" when they see his "duck-umentary?"
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Jeff Shultz
"Lunch Break": Everyone knows there's "no free lunch"... or is there? If anyone can find out, it's Jughead!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Bill Galvan
"Poe Boy": While writing a report on the macabre bard of Baltimore, Jughead learns that nothing's im-POE-ssible when it comes to the imagination!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Bill Galvan
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic shops: November 11, 2009
Newsstands: November 24, 2009
176-page, full-color digest
$3.99 U.S.

BACKLIST

Holidays are a time of good will and cheer, and this month's backlist titles are no exception!

Archie's Holiday Fun Digests, carol with Archie and his Friends with these 96-page yuletide bonanzas, which feature some of everyone's favorite Riverdale holiday stories.

ARCHIE'S HOLIDAY FUN DIGEST #9
Tis the Season to be Jolly, as Archie and his friends celebrate in true Holiday style! Archie and crew have long displayed their holiday spirit, and now through the magic of this digest series, many of the Christmas classics of old are re-presented along with new yuletide tales. It's a stocking-full of good holiday cheer you won't want to miss!
PLUS: Class yuletide tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic shops: November 11, 2009
Newsstands: November 24, 2009
96-page, full-color digest
$2.39 U.S.

ARCHIE'S HOLIDAY FUN DIGEST #10
"The Job": A stint as a department store Santa listening to children's Christmas wish lists could inspire a list of Archie's own: incorrigible, bratty, and pushy are some words that come to mind!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Pat Kennedy
PLUS: Class yuletide tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic shops: November 11, 2009
Newsstands: November 24, 2009
96-page, full-color digest
$2.39 U.S.

ARCHIE'S HOLIDAY FUN DIGEST #11
"Holiday Rush": Betty and Veronica lament the fact that the stores seem to rush the holiday months before it hits...until Mr. Lodge gives them some early Christmas gifts! "Gift Horse Laugh": Reggie gets a nice holiday bonus at his job and the gang suspects he's going to spend it all on himself. Or will the holiday spirit dictate otherwise? "Gift Exchange": Chuck and Moose are having a hard time figuring out what to get their girlfriends for Christmas, until they make suggestions for each other's girls!
SCRIPTS: Mike Pellowski
ART: Tim Kennedy
PLUS: Class yuletide tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic shops: November 11, 2009
Newsstands: November 24, 2009
96-page, full-color digest
$2.49 U.S.

ARCHIE'S HOLIDAY FUN DIGEST #12
"Archie's Holiday Scrapbook": Relive the cherished holiday memories of Archie and his friends as you pour through their festive "scrapbook" filled with their first Christmas photos and other memorabilia they've collected through the years. Along the way, you'll witness many firsts: Archie's discovery of mistletoe, Betty & Veronica's first gift-shopping sprees, Jughead's first holiday buffet and Reggie's first mirror! It's an old-fashioned Christmas you'll be delighted to celebrate!
SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent
PLUS: Class yuletide tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic shops: November 11, 2009
Newsstands: November 24, 2009
96-page, full-color digest
$2.49 U.S.

Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art features "The Art of Archie"

Join New York City's Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art --- MoCCA --- in celebrating the world of Archie Comics, from November 19, 2009 through February 28, 2010.

The exhibition, which kicks off with a special evening reception on November 19, will feature pages and pages of rare comic art, as well as vintage house ads, news clippings, custom collectibles, toys and other merchandise from Archie's 65-plus years as America's eternal teenager.

For more info, check the museum's site, particularly this page!

BRBTV birthdays for November

- Timothy Patrick Murphy, who was Mickey Trotter on "Dallas," was born on November 3, 1959 and died December 6, 1988.
- Kate Reid, who was Mickey's mom Lil on "Dallas," was born on November 4, 1930 and died March 27, 1993.
- Deborah Rennard, our own Sly Lovegren on "Dallas," turns 50 on November 4.
- Todd McKee, our own original Ted Capwell on "Santa Barbara," turns 46 on November 7.
- Russell Johnson, who is a BRBTV triple-shot for playing Sheriff Wyatt Mansfield on "Dallas," Earl Thompson on "Dynasty" and the third Roger Wainwright (Julia's dad) on "SB," turns 85 on November 10.
- Jack Scalia, the mysterious Nicholas Pearce / Joey Lombardi on "Dallas," has a birthday on November 10, as well, turning 59.
- Vincent Irizarry, a bigtime soaper who was Scott Clark on "SB," turns 50 on November 12.
- Dack Rambo, the hunky Jack Ewing of "Dallas," was born on November 13, 1941 and died of AIDS on March 21, 1994.
- Tracy Scoggins, our Monica Colby of "Dynasty" and "The Colbys," as well as Anita Smithfield on "Dallas: War of the Ewings," turns 56 on November 13.
- Edward Asner, the voice of Roland Daggett in "Batman: The Animated Series," turns 80 on November 15.
- Tricia Cast, who was Christy Duvall on "Santa Barbara," turns 41 on November 16.
- George O. Petrie, who played Harv Smithfield on "Dallas," was born on November 16, 1912 and died November 16, 1997.
- Brandon Call, the third Brandon DeMott Capwell on "SB," who was also notable as J.T. Lambert on ABC's sitcom "Step By Step" (side-by-side with Sasha Mitchell and Patrick Duffy of "Dallas"), as well as Hobie Buchanon in the syndicated "Baywatch," turns a so-young 33 on November 17.
- Rock Hudson, who played Daniel Reece on "Dynasty," was born on November 17, 1925 and, like Dack Rambo, died of AIDS, on October 2, 1985.
- Linda Evans, Hudson's on-screen love interest for a time, as Krystle on "Dynasty," turns 67 on November 18.
- Jocelyn Brando, who was John Ross' nanny Mrs. Reeves on "Dallas," was born on November 18, 1919 and died November 27, 2005.
- Joseph Campanella, a true classic actor who is a BRBTV triple-shot for his roles as mobster Joseph Lombardi Sr. on "Dallas" and Hutch Corrigan on "The Colbys," as well as Dr. Matthew Thorne on "Batman: TAS," turns 82 on November 21.
- Deborah Shelton, the stunning Mandy Winger on "Dallas," turns 61 on November 21.
- Maxwell Caulfield, our own Miles Colby of "Dynasty" and "The Colbys," turns 50 on November 23.
- Michael Brainard, our final Ted Capwell on "Santa Barbara," turns 44 on November 23.
- Roscoe Born, our "SB" evil-twin actor as Robert Barr and Quinn Armitage, turns 59 on November 24.
- Howard Duff, who was Sen. Henry Harrison O'Dell on "Dallas," then Paul Galveston on the spinoff, "Knots Landing," was born on November 24, 1913 and died July 8, 1990.
- And ... sigh ... one of BRBTV's very favorite actors ... the wonderful, the great, the accomplished, the amazing (!) Ricardo Montalban, who was Zach Powers on "The Colbys" among so many other things, was born on November 25, 1920, and died on January 14, 2009.
- Marcy Walker, our own Eden Capwell of "SB" who since has settled into work for God's Kingdom, turns 48 on November 26.
- Joshua Harris, our darling little Christopher Ewing of "Dallas," is a big boy now, turning 31 on November 27.
- Stephen Elliott, who was Scotty Demarest on "Dallas," was born on November 27, 1918 and died May 21, 2005.
- Sherilyn Wolter, the evil Elena Nikolas / Capwell on "SB," has a birthday on November 30, turning 58.
- Efrem Zimbalist Jr., who voiced Alfred the butler in "Batman: The Animated Series," turns 91 on November 30.
- Kevin Conroy, who voiced Batman in "Batman: The Animated Series" and all the other series that spun off from it, as well as playing Bart Fallmont on "Dynasty," turns 54 on November 30.


Happy birthday to all!

Diahann Carroll has new small-screen and stage projects

The folks at Diahann Carroll's official website inform us that the songstress and onetime Dominique Deveraux of "Dynasty" has some new stuff going on.

Right now, Carroll has a recurring role on the new USA Network Series "White Collar."

"We are very excited about this new series, that has a very strong cast and excellent writers," says webmaster Kathy Bartels.

Carroll also will be co-starring in two Lifetime feature productions, "At Risk" and "The Front." Filming in Toronto, the movies are based on Patricia Cornwell novels and also star Andie MacDowell. They are scheduled to air in the first quarter of 2010.

"For those of you in the New York City area," Bartels says, "she will be appearing at Lincoln Center on the evening of November 16, along with Wynton Marsalis and Michael Feinstein, in the annual Jazz at Lincoln Center Fundraiser."

Get your getup ready for the Archie Halloween Costume Contest

From Archie Comics

It's that SPOOKY time of year...

Halloween is fun for both the young and young at heart. Archie Comics wants to see how creative their fans are, so they're presenting the "2009 Archie Halloween Costume Contest!"

Here are all the details you need to join in the fun:

Get your costume together (for you and/or your pet).
Take a picture.
Email it as an attachment to 2009.halloween.contest@archiecomics.com
Be sure to put the words "2009 Costume Contest" in the subject line!
And you can enter more than once!*

The contest will be closed for new entries at midnight (EST) on Halloween, October 31, so begin submitting your photos today! ALL photos** will be put up on the Archie Comics website on Halloween, October 31, with the voting starting November 1.

There are 12 prizes this year:
2 Grand Prizes: One-year free subscriptions to http://www.ArchieDigital.com!
10 Runners-up Prizes: 30 day subscriptions to http://www.ArchieDigital.com!

Voting ends at 12:00 AM EST November 15. The costumes that get the most votes** WIN!

* You can enter more than once, but to make sure as many people get to have fun, each contestant can only win one prize per contest.
** Photos must be suitable for the entire family to be featue on the Archie Comics website.
*** Each voter can only vote once. Double voting is not allowed.

Lane Davies: A hot cat, yes, but tin? Never!

There he goes again, Mr. Lane Davies, our own original Mason Capwell of "Santa Barbara," generating some more ink ...

This time it's the Elmira (N.Y.) College News profiling Davies on his next stint, as patriarch Big Daddy in "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" later this month.

"Inimitable ," indeed!

Betty Cooper's most confidential secrets revealed in special give-away comic

From Archie Comics

Over the past several years, Archie Comics has delighted comic shop customers with exclusive giveaway comics produced in conjunction with Diamond Distribution. In addition to Archie’s involvement in Diamond’s annual Free Comic Book Day program, Archie has also served up thrills and chills come Halloween-time. These full-color, 16-page, Halloween-themed comics have all-new stories and art and make the perfect “treat” for the goody bags of costumed revelers.

This year, Archie Comics is back with another fun-filled giveaway issue. Betty’s most confidential secrets are the focus in this tale that highlights Betty’s fabled Diary. Popular writer-penciler Dan Parent unravels the thrilling details with fan-favorite Rich Koslowski on board providing the inks, so this issue is sure to appeal not just to children but adult collectors as well.

In “Betty Cooper, Confidential,” Betty is en route to the book binder to get her diary professionally bound when a stiff wind literally sends the pages of her life flying! Will her friends be able to resist taking a peek at the pages they recover? Just what has Betty written about everyone over the years? These answers and more await you in this suspenseful and poignant tale, the perfect lead-in to the soon-to-be-released trade paperback collection, ARCHIE’S ALL-STARS PRESENTS VOLUME 2: BETTY’S DIARY!

This 16-page giveaway comic may be ordered through comic shops in bundles of 25 for you to give away to trick-or-treaters at your home. Although participating comic shops giveaway one free copy to their customers the bundles are not free, they are for sale at your local comic shop. Go to http://www.comicshoplocator.com/ to find a shop near you.

James Best has a double-header appearance in Hickory, N.C.

It's "Best Fest" in Hickory, N.C., as our own Rosco P. Coltrane of "The Dukes of Hazzard" appears at two separate events in one weekend later this month.

On Saturday, October 24, James Best will be showing his original art and signing copies of his book, "Best in Hollywood," at Hickory's Finest Custom Framing on Highway 127 North. The event runs 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The next day, he'll be having some lunch with fans at the River Street Grill at the Rivercrest Golf Course. The country buffet, which is 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., is $9.95 for adults and $4.95 for kids under age 8.

Visit JamesBest.com to learn more.

John Schneider in concert next month

John Schneider, our own Bo Duke of "The Dukes of Hazzard," will be in concert on Thanksgiving weekend at the Sky City Casino in Acoma, New Mexico. He hits the stage on Saturday, November 28.

To find out more, visit Skycity.com or call 1-888-SKY-CITY (759-2489)

Archie Comics signs with Creative Artists Agency

From Archie Comics

Archie Comic Publications Inc. has signed with CAA to represent the company in pursuing new developments in film, television, music, interactive media, direct-to-video and theatrical animation.

“With CAA’s guidance, we feel Archie Comics Library of characters can be at the forefront of a new entertainment powerhouse with strong brands for fans of every age,” said Jon Goldwater, co-CEO of Archie Comics.

"Now more than ever, the comic book industry's ability to create and nurture enduring characters and stories to translate to other media is key. Just look at the value the Marvel Comics characters hold for Disney," added Goldwater, alluding to Disney's recent purchase of Marvel Entertainment. "Archie Comics is positioned to add the same value with its deep library of properties."

While major emphasis will be placed on building the franchises for such cornerstone properties as Archie and his Friends, Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Josie and the Pussycats, the company also plans to draw upon its 70-year publishing history encompassing thousands of characters. Archie has sold over 1.5 Billion comics and is published in a dozen languages and distributed all over the world.

“The Archie Library of characters is far more varied in style, diverse in content and aimed at more age groups than most people are aware,” added Goldwater. “We see huge growth opportunities for other properties such as Katy Keene, Suzie and Ginger, tough guys Sam Hill and Young Dr. Masters as well as great teen and ‘tween characters like Seymour, That Wilkin Boy and Wilbur.”

Other youthful properties will see new attention in both publishing and other media including Little Archie, Archie Babies, Li'l Jinx, Pat the Brat, Dotty and Ditto, and Pipsqueak.

“Then there are our cult classics like Cosmo the Merry Martian and Super Duck that we feel are primed and ready for CGI animation. We have thousands of characters to draw from,” noted Goldwater.

“In the coming months we expect to have extremely exciting news on bringing all our comic book characters to life in a variety of media,” concluded Goldwater.

As they say in the comics, “to be continued…”

Hold the phone! Archie dumps Veronica for Betty?

From Archie Comics

Since the world first found out Archie was getting married, fans everywhere hoped Betty would be the bride. But those fans discovered quickly Archie Andrews chose Veronica Lodge over Betty Cooper and they were angry! They felt Archie had made the wrong choice, and they are very vocal about it! On television, in the newspapers, and on blogs all over the Internet, fans loudly rejected Archie’s choice.

Despite the tide of public opinion, Archie proposed to Veronica in ARCHIE #600 and she accepted! Fans hoped that something would ruin the wedding plans and Archie would end up with Betty. In ARCHIE #601, not only did Archie and Veronica get married, but Archie joined Lodge Enterprises! Despite all of that, fans everywhere still agreed – Archie made the wrong choice. They didn’t care that Archie and Veronica are happily married, that he has a good job and that they have twins. It didn’t matter what Archie wants, the fans want Archie to choose Betty!

Now Archie Comics will listen to the cry of fans around the world and in ARCHIE #603, Archie Andrews will propose to Betty Cooper!

What about Veronica? Will Archie and Veronica divorce? What about the twins? What about Lodge Enterprises? Will Archie lose his job? What will Mr. & Mrs. Andrews think? What will Mr. & Mrs. Lodge think? What will Mr. & Mrs. Cooper think? What will Jughead think???

Most importantly, what will fans think when Betty finally gets Archie?

The answers to all those questions and more are in ARCHIE #603 - #605 as the “Archie Gets Married” storyline continues. Remember; be careful what you ask for. You just might get it!

(OK, BRBTV will bite ... WE WANT CHERYL BLOSSOM!!!!)

Vincent Irizarry meets and greets in Largo, Florida, next month

Vincent Irizarry, our own Dr. Scott Clark of "Santa Barbara," will be one of several daytime stars attending a fundraiser in Largo, Florida, in November. The event will benefit Our Military Kids, which helps pay for sports, fine arts and tutoring programs for children of military personnel.

"Daytime's Hottest Stars" Fundraiser Event for Our Military Kids.org
Hosted by Designers Image - Patti & Barbie
Saturday, November 7, 2009
2 p.m. - 5 p.m.
AHEPA Lodge Home
1156 Jasper Street W.
Largo, FL
For more info: 727-410-0427, designers.image@hotmail.com

Coming up in Archie Comics

ARCHIE #602
THE ARCHIE STORY OF THE CENTURY CONTINUES AS ARCHIE AND VERONICA WELCOME NOT ONE BUT TWO BLESSED EVENTS!!!!
"Archie Marries Veronica Part 3: It's Twins!": Okay everyone - pick yourselves up off the floor! We know many of you are still lying there from the events of the previous two issues, which hurtled readers into Archie's future. Well, now that you've witnessed the engagement and wedding of Archie and Veronica, prepare for the most major event yet: Archie and Veronica are having a baby! Strike that, they're having babies... TWINS! And now... you can fall to the floor again! Of course, you haven't had a taste of parenthood until you've seen it done Archie-style! Who will the happy couple pick to be godparents? Can Archie get through Lamaze class without causing a commotion? Never mind that - can he make it through the actual birth without full-scale panic? Mixed in with the patented Archie humor is the poignancy of parents sharing the milestones of childhood, like baby's first words and first steps. And wait until you see how the proud new grandparents react! It's the thrilling conclusion to the biggest Archie Comics story since the famous "Love Showdown"... but it may be only the beginning! This landmark tale is written by acclaimed superhero movie producer Michael Uslan and rendered by legendary Archie Comics artist Stan Goldberg. You are cordially invited to witness the Archie story of the century, so RSVP by ordering your copy today!
SCRIPT: Michael Uslan
ART: Stan Goldberg
On sale at comic shops: October 21, 2009
Newsstands: November 4, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

ARCHIE & FRIENDS #136
"The Way to the Heart": It's a kitchen catastrophe when Ms. Beazly is temporarily sidelined by an injury, but never fear - Ms. Beazly's culinary school grad daughter, Bella, is here! All the guys go ga-ga over the chic chef, but will the food she serves be as attractive? Can Jughead simultaneously feel love in his heart and hunger in his stomach? Order up a plate of laughs by reserving this delicious issue!
SCRIPT AND ART: Fernando Ruiz
On sale at comic shops: October 14, 2009
Newsstands: October 27, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

ARCHIE DIGEST #258
DECK THE HALLS AND FILL YOUR STOCKINGS WITH THIS SPECIAL HOLIDAY ISSUE FULL OF FESTIVE FUN!
"Give & Take": Get set for Veronica's most unusually-themed Christmas party yet, with gifts that come straight from the heart instead of the bank account!
SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent
"All Alone": Mr. Weatherbee's Christmas break isn't so cheery when he ends up a shut-in due to his fractured foot... but it isn't long before his students show up to restore his holiday spirit in this poignant tale!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Stan Goldberg
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic shops: October 14, 2009
Newsstands: October 27, 2009
88-page, full-color digest
$2.69 U.S.

ARCHIE'S DOUBLE DIGEST #203
THE THRILLING CONCLUSION TO THE LATEST, POIGNANT "NEW LOOK" TALE!
"Goodbye Forever Part Four": Archie's dad's promotion requires the Andrews to move out of town... and all of Archie's friends are distraught to see him go! But a fortuitous trip to a hamburger joint in their new home town seems eerily like Pop Tate's... right down to the teens who hang out there! This slice of reality pie has Archie and his family thinking... is this move the right move? Will they tough it out and try out life in a new town after all, or reconsider and move back to Riverdale? It's the most poignant "New Look" story yet , rendered in the "realistic" art style that made Betty and Veronica's "Bad Boy Trouble" and "My Father's Betrayal," Jughead's "Matchmakers," and Moose and Midge's "Break-up Blues" some of the most-talked about Archie stories in recent years! Multiple award-winning and -nominated artist Norm Breyfogle brings his fine-tuned talents to this heart-tugging tale, with "New Look" scribe Melanie J. Morgan.
SCRIPT: Melanie J. Morgan
ART: Norm Breyfogle
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic shops: October 28, 2009
Newsstands: November 11, 2009
176-page, full-color digest
$3.99 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA #244
"Holiday Watch": It just wouldn't be the holidays without a visit from Jingles the Elf and the Sugar Plum Fairy, but now that they're love-struck they need someone to make sure they don't slack on their duties... and Santa has assigned that task to Betty and Veronica! "Snuggle Up": Seeking ideas that will save some money this holiday, the gang decide to do a "Secret Santa" giveaway... but once they see their presents they'll wish the idea had stayed a "secret!" "Caramel on Top": The claws come out when Veronica matches wits with someone even cattier than herself - Betty's cat Caramel!
SCRIPTS: Dan Parent
ART: Jeff Shultz
On sale at comic shops: October 28, 2009
Newsstands: November 11, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #175
"Diary Dilemma": Veronica finds Betty's diary... but will she find the time to read it?
SCRIPT: Kathleen Webb
ART: Jeff Shultz
"Driven to Distraction": When her driving privileges are revoked, Veronica counts on Archie and Reggie for rides... and the boys can count on Veronica "driving" them crazy with her need to stop at every sale!
SCRIPT: Angelo DeCesare
ART: Jeff Shultz
"Gift Goof": Big Moose proves he doesn't have a "gift" for buying presents!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Jeff Shultz
On sale at comic shops: October 21, 2009
Newsstands: November 4, 2009
176-page, full-color digest
$3.99 U.S.

PALS-N-GALS DOUBLE DIGEST #136
DON'T MISS PART TWO OF THE LATEST "NEW LOOK" SAGA THAT TRANSFORMS REGGIE FROM WISE GUY TO ROMEO!
"A Funny Kind of Love Part Two": Bernadette Brownlee is the new girl in school... and not only is she gorgeous and intelligent, but she laughs at Reggie's jokes, too! But Reggie's goal is to become a professional comedian, and while Bernadette finds his class-clowning cute, she has no love for stand-up comics. Furthermore, Bernadette wants to be President of the United States, but Reggie has little regard for politicians. Can Cupid's arrow slice through their differences... and what about Dilton and Archie, who have also caught Bernadette's eye? It's the most unexpected "New Look" story yet, rendered in the "realistic" art style that made Betty and Veronica's "Bad Boy Trouble" and "My Father's Betrayal," Jughead's "Matchmakers," Moose and Midge's "Break-up Blues," and Archie and his friend's "Goodbye Forever" some of the most talked-about Archie stories in recent years!
SCRIPT: Melanie J. Morgan
ART: Tod Smith and Al Milgrom
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic shops: November 4, 2009
Newsstands: November 17, 2009
176-page, full-color digest
$3.99 U.S.

TALES FROM RIVERDALE DIGEST #35
"This Twirling World": Archie brings sign twirling to new heights... but what goes up must come down, and Mr. Lodge is convinced those signs will land on Veronica!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Fernando Ruiz
"Good Taste in Cars": Pop Tate's new hybrid van is good for the environment and the Chock'lit Shop's business, as the eco-friendly fuel sends a French fry smell through the air!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Stan Goldberg
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic shops: October 21, 2009
Newsstands: November 4, 2009
88-page, full-color digest
$2.69 U.S.

VERONICA #197
"Save the Date!": Veronica decides to surprise her friends with a calendar featuring a whole year of fabulous photos of herself... but the real surprise will leave her friends laughing for years to come!
SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent
On sale at comic shops: November 4, 2009
Newsstands: November 17, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

Spotted: John Zaremba

He always seemed to portray professional types: judges, lawyers, mayors, professors. But it's that white doctor's coat that he really wore well. He's John Zaremba, and on "Dallas" he was the trusted Ewing family physician, Harlan Danvers. Two years before he looked after Jock and Ellie, however, he played another doctor, on an episode of ABC's "Charlie's Angels."

In the 1976 (first season) episode "To Kill an Angel," Zaremba is Dr. Stafford, the kindly old clinician at a sanitarium whom Jill and Sabrina consult after Kelly is accidentally shot by a young resident of the facility. Dr. Stafford offers the Angels a clue to the past of this mysterious and troubled young boy: a timecard on which was written a request for the sanitarium to take care of the boy.

Examine the California-born Zaremba's resume and you really will find a wealth of doctorly roles. He played a doctor on "Fantasy Island," "The Streets of San Francisco," "The Rookies," "Banacek," "Bonanza" and more, all the way back to his first acting credit. His career -- as well as his work with the Ewings -- was cut short by a heart attack in 1986.

Robin Sachs will chat with fans later this month

He was only Adam Carrington for a short time, for the 1991 reunion movie. But the London-born Robin Sachs is on our radar, nonetheless, and your opportunity to chat with him is coming up.

The people behind Sachs' official website are hosting the chat, which will take place on Saturday, October 17, at 1 p.m. EST.

The chat will take place at http://www.tinychat.com/robinsachs.

You can keep tabs on Sachs at his Facebook page.

BRBTV birthdays for October

- Alan Rachins, memorable as the wound-up Temple Fugate / Clock King on "Batman: The Animated Series," turns 67 on October 3.
- Jack Wagner, who was our final Warren Lockridge on "Santa Barbara," along with a host of other soap opera roles in the '80s and '90s, turns 50 on October 3.
- Christopher Stone, who was Dave Stratton on "Dallas," was born on October 4, 1942, and died on October 20, 1995.
- Charlton Heston, our giant Jason Colby on "Dynasty" and "The Colbys," was born on October 4, 1923, and died on April 5 of last year.
- Christopher Norris, who was the demented Laura Asher on "SB," will turn 56 on October 7.
- John O’Hurley, who was the second Stephen Slade on "Santa Barbara" and so many other things over the years, including a fabulous "Seinfeld" role and that "Dancing With the Stars" gig, turns 55 on October 9.
- J. Eddie Peck, who's a BRBTV double-shot with his roles on our two primetime biggies, Tommy McKay on "Dallas" and Roger Grimes on "Dynasty," turns 51 on October 10.
- Jim McMullan, who was Sen. Andrew Dowling on "Dallas," turns 73 on October 13.
- Greg Evigan, who was Willie Gust on "Dallas" but is better known for "B.J. and the Bear," turns 56 on October 14.
- Arleen Sorkin, the unforgettable voice of Harley Quinn on "Batman: The Animated Series," as well as the person who inspired the character, turns 53 on October 14.
- Barry Corbin, who was the stalwart Sheriff Fenton Washburn on "Dallas," as well as Pullman in the 2005 "Dukes of Hazzard" movie, turns 69 on October 16.
- John Anderson, who was Kimberly Cryder's father Dr. Styles on "Dallas," was born on October 20, 1922, and died on August 7, 1992.
- John Zaremba, who played Dr. Harlan Danvers on "Dallas," was born on October 22, 1908, and died on December 15, 1986.
- Wolf Muser, who was the sinister Marcello Armonti on "Santa Barbara," terrorizing C.C. Capwell for his supposed wrongs in the second World War, turns 59 on October 23.
- Scott Jaeck, another "SB" alum as Cain Garver who was spotted more recently as a hired gun on Fox's "Prison Boys" (er, we mean "Prison Break"), turns 55 on October 29.
- The talented and well-regarded (and ever patient) Barbara Bel Geddes, who for so many years portrayed Miss Ellie Ewing on "Dallas," was born on Halloween in 1922 in New York City. She died on August 8, 2005, of lung cancer.


Happy birthday to all!

Listen in on fresh chats with Sheree J. Wilson, Susan Howard and more

And we thought we were the only ones in the world who saw Sheree J. Wilson in that short-lived late-'80s primetime drama, "Our Family Honor" ... No, Leonard Katzman saw her, too! In fact, that's how Sheree got the role of April Stevens on "Dallas"!

"He wrote the part for me," she says. "He wrote a sassy little b&*ch on wheels ... I think I was supposed to be in about 13 episodes." (And yes, Sheree, we remember that first scene, too!)

Wilson reminisces about her co-stars, the storylines and much more in a fresh interview with DallasFanzine.com. You can hear the whole half-hour of audio from the "Gallery" section of the site.

DallasFanzine also talks with Susan Howard, who portrayed Donna Krebbs on "Dallas," Steve (Ray Krebbs) Kanaly, Linda (Sue Ellen Ewing) Gray and Ken (Cliff Barnes) Kercheval. Click on the various links in the "Gallery" and "Videos & Audio" sections.

"Dallas" cast plans its own rockin' New Year's Eve in Florida

They may not be reconvening at Southfork Ranch just yet, but there is a place where you can catch the cast of "Dallas" all in one shot: The Timothy Hogan Foundation Inc. has invited J.R. & Co. out to host a spectacular New Year's Eve charity bash in Naples, Florida!

"The Ewings of Dallas New Year’s Eve Safari and Gala" will be a multi-day celebration and will include an exclusive cocktail reception for sponsors and VIPs hosted by the cast, and a formal dinner limited to 146 guests at the Naples Hilton Towers on December 30. And there's a special after-dinner treat sweeter than any mint: a showing of a "Dallas" bloopers movie, along with Larry Hagman's personal bloopers and private movies! Yummy!

The next day, the main event at the Naples Grande Beach Resort will include a cocktail reception, again hosted by the cast, hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, plus dinner, fireworks, a fun “Dallas Cast” Q & A session, the countdown to the new year and a champagne celebration.

Cast members confirmed for the event so far:
Larry Hagman (J.R. Ewing)
Charlene Tilton (Lucy Ewing)
Steve Kanaly (Ray Krebbs)
Susan Howard (Donna Krebbs)
Ken Kercheval (Cliff Barnes)
Sheree J. Wilson (April Stevens)
Deborah Shelton (Mandy Winger)
Audrey Landers (Afton Cooper)
Joan Van Ark (Valene Ewing)
Jack Scalia (Nicholas Pearce)
Jared Martin (Dusty Farlow)

Keep your eye on the foundation's site, DallasFanzine.com, or Ultimate Dallas site's page; the goal is for 14-16 cast members to attend this blockbuster event.

The Timothy Hogan Foundation Inc. of Naples is a volunteer 501(c)(3) organization that focuses exclusively on treatment options for children in working families experiencing mental health issues, with the goal of reducing teen suicide, the third most frequent cause of death in Florida. Learn more at http://www.jthogan.org/.

By the by ... in our September 9 post we reported on the blockbuster Hollywood Show happening next month. Turns out, Linda Gray and Patrick Duffy have been added to the menu for this classic star feast, and, show organizer Judith Moose tells BRBTV, "there's a good chance that Larry Hagman will be popping in, too." Rock on, man!

Archie Comics and Dark Horse join forces on archive edition

From Archie Comics

Archie Andrews, America’s typical teenager, was presented for the first time in PEP COMICS #22 in December 1941. Since then, Archie and his friends have entertained eight generations of readers. The opportunity has now arrived for both old and new Archie fans to experience Archie’s fun-filled journey to become the world’s most popular teen. Archie Comics is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Dark Horse Comics, as Archie and the kids from Riverdale will be joining the Dark Horse line of classic comic reprints.

The Archie Archives will consist of hardcover volumes, in Dark Horse’s archive format, featuring Archie Comics' mainstay characters of Archie, Betty, Jughead, Veronica and the other characters in the Riverdale universe. Each individual title will begin with the earliest published issue and move forward in chronological order. Each volume will be approximately 200-250 pages, feature embossed printing and a dust-jacket, and carry both the Archie Comics and Dark Horse names and logos. The initial plan is to release three volumes of each title per calendar year, with each volume retailing for $49.95. According to Dark Horse publisher Mike Richardson, the series will run indefinitely.

Archie Comics co-CEO Jon Goldwater says, “We have seen the quality and care Dark Horse has put into restoring and collecting material for their archival series, and we are looking forward to making our early MLJ library of classic material available to a new generation of kids and collectors.”