'Riverdale' Shuts Down Production After Luke Perry's Death, The CW Releases Statement

The CW has shut down production on the hit series Riverdale after the tragic death of actor Luke Perry, according to Variety.

The 52-year-old actor, who played the role of Archie’s father Fred Andrews, died on Monday morning (March 4) after suffering a massive stroke last week.

Luke was surrounded by his family when he passed away and celebrities have been writing tributes to remember the late actor.

The CW and Warner Bros. Television released a joint statement with Riverdale executive producers Greg Berlanti, Sarah Schechter, Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Jon Goldwater.

They said, “We are deeply saddened to learn today about the passing of Luke Perry. A beloved member of the Riverdale, Warner Bros. and CW family, Luke was everything you would hope he would be: an incredibly caring, consummate professional with a giant heart, and a true friend to all. A father figure and mentor to the show’s young cast, Luke was incredibly generous, and he infused the set with love and kindness. Our thoughts are with Luke’s family during this most difficult time.”