Riverdale Production Shuts Down in the Wake of Luke Perry's Death

Riverdalehas shut down production in the wake of Luke Perry's death, Varietyhasreported.

The CW show's executive producers sent out a joint statement with WBTV and The CW addressing the iconic actor's passing, saying. "We are deeply saddened to learn today about the passing of Luke Perry. A beloved member of the Riverdale, Warner Bros. and CW family, Luke was everything you would hope he would be: an incredibly caring, consummate professional with a giant heart, and a true friend to all. A father figure and mentor to the show's young cast, Luke was incredibly generous, and he infused the set with love and kindness. Our thoughts are with Luke's family during this most difficult time."

Molly Ringwald, Ian Ziering, and More Share Touching Tributes to Luke Perry

Perry passed away Monday at the age of 52 following a massive stroke. He played Fred Andrews on Riverdale, the father of Archie Andrews (KJ Apa). The halt in production will allow the rest of the cast to take time off in the wake of their fellow cast member's passing, while also giving the series the time it needs to presumably write Fred out of the show.

There is no word on when production on Riverdale will resume or whether this loss will affect the upcoming meta revival of Beverly Hills, 90210. Unlike a number of original cast members, Perry was not signed on to appear full-time because of his commitment to Riverdale.

Riverdale airs Wednesdays at 8/7c on The CW.

(Disclosure: TV Guide is owned by CBS Interactive, a division of CBS Corporation.)

PHOTOS: The Top 25 CW Ships of All Time, Ranked