Ep 1. Chapter Fifty-Eight: In Memoriam

Chapter Fifty-Eight: In Memoriam is the first episode of the fourth season of Riverdale. It is a special and emotional episode that pays tribute to the beloved character of Fred Andrews (played by the late Luke Perry) who passed away in March 2019.

The episode opens with Archie (KJ Apa) getting up early on a Saturday morning and getting ready for a road trip with his father. The two planned to take a long drive to pick up Archie's car, which has been fixed by a mechanic in Cherry Creek. Fred surprises Archie with a brand new car, which leaves Archie overjoyed and grateful towards his father.

As they drive through a quiet forest road, Fred spots a woman whose car has broken down on the side of the road. He stops to help, and while the two are talking, a drunk driver speeds by them, nearly hitting Fred. In a heroic moment, Fred pushes the woman out of harm's way and takes the hit from the car himself. It's a shocking moment that leaves the audience stunned.

The rest of the episode follows the aftermath of Fred's death in Riverdale and how his friends and family react to the news. Archie is distraught and inconsolable, unable to grasp the fact that his father is gone. His friends, including Jughead (Cole Sprouse), Betty (Lili Reinhart), and Veronica (Camila Mendes), try to support him as best they can, but they are all grieving in their own way.

The episode is a beautiful tribute to Luke Perry and his character's impact on the show and its viewers. It's a departure from the typical drama and suspense that Riverdale is known for, but it's a heartfelt and emotional episode that captures the essence of the show's heart.

The acting in this episode is exceptional, particularly from KJ Apa, who carries the weight of the episode on his shoulders. He portrays a range of emotions, from shock and disbelief to anger and sadness, with authenticity and vulnerability. The rest of the cast also delivers powerful performances, as they come together to mourn the loss of their friend and father figure.

One of the standout moments of the episode is when the town gathers to pay their respects to Fred. It's a powerful scene that showcases the impact that he had on the community. There's a sense of unity and love that permeates the scene, and it's a reminder that even in the darkest of times, people can come together to support each other.

Overall, Chapter Fifty-Eight: In Memoriam is a touching and poignant episode that honors the memory of Luke Perry and his character on Riverdale. It's a departure from the show's usual tone, but it's a necessary one that allows the characters and the audience to process their grief. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and how a television show can impact people's lives.