The iconic Riverdale teen will be getting a sex change in August’s Archie No. 636 – changing into Archina.
And while Archie Comics has been dealing with some serious topics of late, including gay marriage, the heartthrob won’t be transforming due to hormones or an operation.
“There’s some magic,” Archie president Mike Pellerito said of the story, entitled “The Great Switcheroo.” “It’s really fun, silly and kind of goofy.”
The gender swap happens after Sabrina the Teenage Witch’s cat hears Archie and long time love interests Betty and Veronica argue over who has it easier – boys or girls.
“The grass is always greener on the other side,” Pellerito said.
Betty and Veronica are also affected by Salem’s spell – becoming Billy and Ronnie in a world where they’ve always been boys and Archie has always been a girl.
Pellerito said “Archina is still the most popular kid in school,” and she still can’t decide between the filthy-rich Ronnie and the perfect boy next door Billy.
“Even in ‘Reversedale,’ some things are forever,” Pellerito said.