Riverdale’s Comic-Con panel paid special tribute to Luke Perry, who was starring in the show as Fred Andrews at the time of his death last March. The panel opened with a tribute reel that featured some of Perry’s best scenes and heart to hearts between Fred and Archie Andrews. Showrunner Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa presented the clip, first talking about Perry’s audition for Fred and how the late actor expressed the similarities between himself and the character.

Aguirre-Sacasa stated that the season four premiere will be dedicated to Perry and the character of Fred. Among the tribute episode’s news is that it will feature a guest appearance by Shannen Doherty, a close friend of Perry’s and his former costar on Beverly Hills, 90210. Aguirre-Sacasa stated that Perry had wanted to get Doherty on the show for a few years and that she will play a pivotal, emotional role in the tribute episode.

In regard to how the show will handle the situation after Archie loses his father, Aguirre-Sacasa said that Molly Ringwald, who plays Mary Andrews, will have a larger role in the show as a full-time cast member.

A new addition to the cast was also announced. Dawson’s Creek star Kerr Smith has joined the series as Mr. Honey, the new principal at Riverdale High School. He will appear in a recurring role and is set for an introduction in the second episode of the new season.

The panel revealed other news for the upcoming season, including that they’ll have their first Halloween episode, Jughead will attend prep school, The Archies will be introduced, Veronica and Cheryl will become business partners, one of Kevin’s old flames returns, and Josie will appear in the season premiere.

Riverdale returns for season four on Wednesday, October 9, 2019, on The CW.