Little Archie was a comic book series published by Archie Comics from 1956 to 1983, totaling 180 issues. It reimagined the well-known Archie Andrews and his friends as elementary school children, offering a younger perspective on the world of Riverdale. The series became one of the most successful alternate versions of the Archie universe, featuring familiar characters in new, child-friendly adventures.
Beginnings
The concept for Little Archie reportedly emerged during a poker game. John Goldwater, inspired by a playful jab from his peers about the abundance of Archie titles, launched Little Archie in 1956. The comic introduced new characters and explored the childhood escapades of the Riverdale gang. The series was first written and illustrated by Bob Bolling, who added depth by addressing moral and educational themes. Dexter Taylor later succeeded Bolling.
Overview
While maintaining the familiar dynamics of its teenage counterpart, Little Archie added a unique charm by showcasing the characters as young children. Miss Grundy and Mr. Weatherbee appeared as the teacher and principal of Riverdale Elementary School. Stories often highlighted moral lessons, catering to a younger audience.
The series also included spin-offs like Little Archie in Animal Land (1957–1958) and Little Archie Mystery (1963), which placed the characters in fantastical and mystery-driven settings.
In 1991, a redesign called The New Little Archie modernized the characters’ appearances and sensibilities but was poorly received. After fan backlash, the original style returned by 1993. Another redesign in 2011, when Little Archie crossed over with Tiny Titans, was better received.
Key Characters
In addition to the main gang, Little Archie introduced several unique characters:
- Abercrombie and Stitch: Friendly aliens who joined Little Archie in various adventures.
- Caramel: Betty’s golden-haired cat, later integrated into the main Archie continuity.
- Polly and Chic Cooper: Betty’s older siblings, initially exclusive to Little Archie. They were later incorporated into the main series as an adult news reporter and government agent, respectively.
- Mad Doctor Doom & Chester: A green-skinned mad scientist and his bumbling assistant, who plotted world domination.
- Evelyn Evernever: A shy girl who occasionally appeared in Little Archie and later resurfaced in the main series as a more complex character.
- Fangs Fogarty: A school bully who later matured into a reformed, handsome young man in the main comics.
- Sue Stringly: A poor but optimistic girl who befriended Little Archie and Veronica. She was reimagined as a teenage secret agent in later stories.
- Spotty: Little Archie’s loyal dog, occasionally appearing in the main continuity.
- Legacy
Little Archie remains a beloved part of Archie Comics’ history, remembered for its whimsical storytelling and engaging characters. Its influence is seen in the way it expanded the Riverdale universe, introducing new dynamics and a nostalgic look at the gang’s younger years.
See also
External links
- Little Archie at Toonopedia. Archived from the original on November 10, 2015.