Behind all the cringe-worthy moments and bizarre storylines that come together to form Riverdale, there are also numerous heartwarming moments related to fans' favorite characters. After all, watching the characters grow up has endeared them to fans, and it's especially nostalgic to think about all the characters who are no longer in the show.
So, whether these touching scenes are related to their first-love stories, precious friendship moments, or maybe to family memories that are sweeter than Pop's famous milkshake, many of them are often unexpectedly relatable.
When Jughead Reunites With His Mom And Sister
Fans had anticipated the Jones family reunion for three whole seasons, and the scene was definitely worth the wait. Considering the only known information about Jughead's mother and sister was the two of them left Riverdale to start a new life in Toledo (because of FP's drinking problem), it was truly a pleasant surprise to see them all back together for the first time.
From the hug Jellybean and Jug shared to an amusing conversation he has with Gladys, who, funnily enough, may be a "Jarchie" shipper, this scene is packed with emotion. And, although the moment was almost ruined by some memories that reopened old wounds, it was still a cute scene of a proud and happy mother seeing her son after a long time.
When Cheryl Comes Out To Toni
This special and vulnerable moment for Cheryl happens at Pop's after Toni and she watched Love, Simon together – a heartwarming movie about a teenager who struggles with coming out as gay to his family and friends. Touched by its story, Cheryl ends up being in tears while sharing with Toni her secret about Heather – a girl from Junior High whom she deeply loved until her mother destroyed their relationship.
Toni comforts her saying she's not a "loveless monster" as Penelope likes to state but – "sensational." That was surely a beautiful beginning of "Choni" as well as an important moment for Cheryl when it comes to figuring out her sexuality and finally accepting herself.
When Alice Showed Up At Polly's Baby Shower
From the start of Polly's pregnancy, Alice has made some bad parental decisions that turned her teenage daughter's life into a living hell. For example, she sent Polly to a horrifying nunnery and even planned to give her babies up for adoption.
Obviously, she was nowhere near being the kind and supportive mother Polly needed; that's why it was so touching to see her showing up at a baby shower, despite her own disapproval of the situation. Alice apologized and hugged Polly, but the most heartwarming moment was when she sentimentally gifted her a night light; the same one Polly adored as a little girl.
Bughead’s First Kiss
Comic fans had expecting Betty and Jughead to become a couple for years, but it finally happened in Riverdale's first season. Many of them must have screamed from the excitement when Jughead climbed through Betty's window greeting her in a Shakespearean manner, saying: “Hey there, Juliet.”
Moments later, this timeless pick-up line and Jughead's adorable nervousness around Betty naturally led to one of the most romantic scenes in the show – their first kiss. No wonder "Bughead" instantly became a fan-favorite couple, as well as a synonym for relationship goals.
When Jughead Becomes Serpent King
Many fans would agree, if anyone deserves to be named Serpent King after FP's retirement, it's definitely Jughead. So, it was more than fitting for FP to pass the crown to his son, especially after he sacrificed himself for the Southside Serpents.
FP's speech was quite emotional as well as Jughead's simple but touching words of gratitude: "I love you, Dad." He also stated he would never let the gang down, which led to his first act as new king – accepting Cheryl into the community by giving her a custom-made red Serpent jacket.
When Archie Buys Jalopy
In the show's second season, Archie gets his hands dirty working for Hiram Lodge. So, in exchange for his help and loyalty, Hiram surprises him with an expensive gift – a mint-condition 1969 Pontiac Firebird. But, when Fred finds out about this, he disappointingly expresses to Archie he was hoping to fix up an old jalopy with him just like he and his father did. After all, as Hiram says, "A young man never forgets his first car."
Therefore, Archie eventually gives up the Firebird and buys his famous "Ol' Betsy" at the junkyard (1916 Ford Model T, for the record). The scene of showing it to his father is heartwarming on so many levels, not only because the gesture left Fred in joyful tears but also because it means a lot to comics fans since this classic vehicle is an iconic part of the Archie Universe.
When Everyone Showed Up At The Hospital To Comfort Archie
Season 2 premiere is centered around the events that follow Fred's tragic encounter with the Black Hood. After he was shot at Pop's, Archie brought him to a hospital where all of his friends and their parents came together to be there for him.
It was nice to see Jughead, Betty, and Veronica hug Archie, how Jughead is trying to cheer him up as well as Reggie who (on the behalf of the Riverdale Bulldogs), along with Josie and the Pussycats, showed up to offer help and support. On top of that, there's one unexpected but quite special tender-hearted moment with Cheryl when she leans to plant a "kiss of life" on Fred's forehead to return the favor of Archie saving her life last season.
Pop's Retirement Party
In case the gang needs a break from solving murder mysteries, there's always Riverdale's staple hangout Pop's Chock'lit Shoppe with the most delicious burgers and milkshakes. This diner is practically their second home, mainly because of its owner, Pop Tate, whom many people in town adore.
After the time jump, Pop decides to hang up his boots so Archie throws him a memorable retirement party. He also gives him a Bulldogs jacket, which reminds Pop that he never got a chance to graduate since he had to run the diner after his father passed away. Ultimately, Jughead puts a smile on everyone's face by giving a speech in Pop's honor, whose diner will forever be to all of them "a lighthouse in the storm."
Graduation Ceremony
There's something particularly emotional about watching Betty, Veronica, Jughead, and the rest of the gang graduate from high school. From Betty's valedictorian speech, to scenes of cheerful parents who are clapping proudly as their former high schoolers are collecting diploma, it's bittersweet; especially for Archie who gets to walk across the stage with his friends although he has to repeat senior year.
Besides, even the viewers could feel Fred's absence at the ceremony but, overall, this whole "Graduation" episode is crammed with only positive and happy moments that are truly rare to see or experience in the town of Riverdale.
When Archie Brings Fred's Body Home
No doubt, the most soul-stirring Riverdale moments are related to the season 4 premiere that honors the memory of Luke Perry and his character Fred Andrews who dies in a hit-and-run accident while helping a stranger.
The whole town is devastated, which is painfully visible on the mourning actors' faces, especially at the parade in Fred's honor as Archie drives his father's body home. The scene is grief-stricken but also heartwarming for seeing all the characters gathered together as they say their last goodbyes to their kindest friend.