Disney+ Prepares a Dark New Chapter for Archie With Zombie Horror Series

Disney+ is preparing to introduce a darker interpretation of the Archie Comics universe with its upcoming original series Afterlife with Archie. The live action adaptation transforms Riverdale into the setting of a zombie apocalypse following a supernatural spell that unleashes the undead. Based on the comic book series by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Francesco Francavilla, the production combines familiar characters with horror and survival storytelling. Greg Berlanti and Aguirre-Sacasa are among the executive producers developing the project through Warner Bros. Television. Director Alfonso Gomez-Rejon has been selected to direct the first two episodes and serve as an executive producer. The series is expected to premiere around Halloween 2027, although an exact release date has not been announced. Its development reflects Disney+'s continuing investment in recognizable entertainment properties adapted for new audiences and genres. The project will introduce a supernatural version of Archie, Betty, Veronica, and their friends as they confront a deadly threat to their hometown.