Sunday, August 23, 2009

For All the Bettys Out There

Back in May, I got an upset phone call from my sister, Heather. She told me that on "Good Morning America" they had announced that in August, Archie Andrews was getting married...to Veronica Lodge. I just kept saying "What?!" over and over. Archie is supposed to be with Betty Cooper! We all know that. What does Archie's choosing Veronica mean? That the mean girl wins? That what's really important to a guy really is looks and money over brains and kindness? My whole world view has been shaken.

Later, Elizabeth sent me a link to a CNN article about the issue. It seems that things might be up in the air according to the various party's blogs (see links above).

I feel a special bond with Betty. Often, when I receive one of those "Answer these 25 questions about yourself and forward it to your friends" emails, I'll fill it out as Betty.  I love how she makes her own clothes (that are just as nice as Ronnie's Paris originals), bakes delicious goodies (which she usually gives to the undeserving Archie or the always grateful Juggie), does well in school, and is generally upbeat and optimistic.  She's also an independent woman who knows how to fix Archie's car and take care of business!  

What is Archie thinking?!  

Veronica is spoiled, selfish (she can at times use her money generously, but it's usually because of the positive influence of someone else), needy, and fickle!  She's never loyal to Archie, and often ditches him for Reggie (who has money and a fancy car), or for another guy if she gets bored of those two.  

Needless to say, I'm rather upset.  My sisters, cousin, and I have discussed the matter thoroughly.  When the comic in which the big event comes to pass, do we buy the comic and then burn it in effigy?  Or do we boycott the comic altogether?  Or a third alternative: read the comic in the store to find out how exactly it all goes down, then hide them in various locations throughout the store so no one else can buy them...  

A final thought: Whatever the outcome of this comic may be, I will cling to one fact:  My paternal grandparents names are, believe it or not, Archie and Betty.  Maybe things can still work out?  If not, Adam (Betty's sometimes beau) seems like a nice guy... 

5 comments:

David and Linda said...

Words from another generation: Betty Cooper Andrews is the only acceptable answer. Anyone who has ever read Archie comics knows that!! I WILL boycott.

Lex said...

The problem is that so many guys like the needy girl. I wouldn't even say that it is about the money, but the like being needed. If the girl can do everything themself, then they don't know what to contribute to the relationship. Clearly, if this is true, Archie just isn't man enough for a great catch like Betty.

Brady said...

I think it'll all turn out ok. The key to remember is that it's a 6 issue arc, but we only know what the first 3 issues are. So, quite likely, the 2nd 3 will be Archie and Betty, the way it was meant to be. And there will be rejoicing.

Check it:
http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2009/08/archie_marries_veronica_not_a.html?ps=rs

Elizabeth Downie said...

I agree with Brady - I think that the writers know that everyone wants Archie to end up with Betty. They are just saying he chooses Veronica to stir things up. At the end, it will all work out. :)

D said...

Betty is definitely the better choice for Archie but I don't really think he is worthy of her. This Adam guy sounds like he is a lot more worth her time.