Review: Archie Comics’ ‘Life With Archie #36’ Delivers A ‘Surprisingly Touching’ Death To Beloved Archie Andrews

The most-talked about issue has finally arrived and thankfully, Archie Comics doesn't disappoint. With a heartbreaking twist, Life with Archie #36 delivers a truly gripping and surprisingly touching death to beloved comic book icon, Archie Andrews.

It's no spoiler that we all know Archie was going to be killed off in this installment. The shocking death scene is pivotal, but how writer Paul Kupperberg gets there is very much integral. The events that lead up to our red-haired hero being shot are what make the narrative such a tear-jerker.

In this alternate universe, Andrews has grown up and graduated from college.  While daydreaming about marriage, the narrative presents two alternate timelines. What would our protagonist's life be like if he married either Betty or Veronica?

Whatever future he imagines for himself, the one thing that remains the same, he will always be a loving and caring father. No matter how his children grow up, whether spoiled or well-mannered, Archie still loves them wholeheartedly. His kids and future are stripped away from him during the senseless hate crime.

During MStars visit to Special Edition NYC, a fan asked if the timing of Archie's death was right, due to all the recent shootings. Archie's Co-CEO Jon Goldwater thoughtfully responded, "Unfortunately, there's been gun violence for decades, and decades, and decades, we all want it to go away. Hopefully it will go away sooner rather than later." Goldwater continues, "That's why I encourage you guys to read the story. Because the way we handle it is so respectful towards the sentiment we're experiencing here. I think you will be pleased and proud at how we handle a violent situation."

Written by: Paul Kupperberg

Art by: Pat & Tim Kennedy, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli, Glenn Whitmore

Publisher: Archie Comics

Release Date: 7/16/14

Verdict: BUY IT

In the story arc, Kevin Keller, the first openly gay character in comic universe, is running for Senator. Archie heroically takes the bullet that was meant for his best friend. It speaks volumes that our main character dies for a better future, just so that everyone else can.

The assassination attempt at Keller are the most suspenseful parts in the installment. Each artist -- Pat and Tim Kennedy, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli, and Glenn Whitmore - adds their style to enhance the chaos at the shooting. In a splash page, we actually see in detail the bullet entering Archie and it is excruciatingly painful.

As reported here, Archie has a list of fantastic variant covers from well-known artists, from Mike Allred to Francesco Francavilla. As a comic book fan, you should collect them all.

Be prepared to grab those tissues when you pick up, Life With Archie #36, which is out in stores now. Readers, which cover are you going to up for this must-read issue?