On March 4, 2019, the Riverdale family lost Luke Perry, who played Fred Andrews, to a stroke. Still in the midst of its third season, series creator Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa promised The CW series would address Perry’s tragic death with a tribute episode in the fourth season. Then on Oct. 9, the teen drama made its season 4 debut, titled “In Memoriam,” to honor the beloved actor.
The beautifully done tribute included scenes to highlight Fred as a character and Perry as an actor. In the episode, almost every Riverdale character was briefly featured, affected by Fred’s death in some way. A special cameo by Perry’s friend and former Beverly Hills, 90210 co-star, Shannen Doherty, was also made to show Fred died a hero. It’s clear “In Memoriam” was the perfect way for the cast — and viewers — to say their final goodbyes. And of course, the episode left fans in tears.
