Riverdale finale spoilers: The state of Jughead, Cheryl Blossom

The Riverdale finale tonight brings untapped potential to the table — with characters this meaty and a story this dark, there is a chance for fantastic storytelling. Simultaneously, you can see characters descend further into darkness and despair. At the center of all of them is Cheryl Blossom.

The video below is a further reflection of Cheryl’s personal hell. Her parents are terrible, but this does not change the aftermath of her father’s death. Clifford murdered his own son; there is blood in the metaphorical walls of her heart and in her head. With her mother’s heartless nature, there is no source for solace; in a world already wrought with trauma, there are few opportunities for happiness or relief for her. Be prepared for the biggest Cheryl Blossom episode of the season.

Meanwhile, circumstances for Jughead are dark in their own manner. While F.P. may not be a killer, he is still a criminal locked away behind bars. What that means for him is a change of circumstances and setting at South Side High with a foster parent. Suddenly, he’s detached from the world that he was starting to embrace. There were connections and friendships forming at Riverdale; this crumbles at South Side, surrounded by bullies and people with zero interest in forging such a bond. This is hell for someone with his social deficiencies. Even if he escapes, will he be in the mental state to attach to his old friend-group again?

Through the season 2 finale, death may come knocking; meanwhile, romantic relationships could change, characters could depart, and there could be glimmers of hope for others. Just don’t expect Josie and the Pussycats to close out the episode with a happy-go-lucky musical number where Cheryl dances away the blues. The sky in Riverdale may appear blue to some, but underneath there are rainstorms of the mind and soul. This is a dark, psychological show, and one that may only descend further in season 2. (Be happy that there is no ambiguity on the future entering the finale.)

Want to preview the Riverdale finale further?

Visit this link to uncover both the promo and the synopsis for tonight’s episode. (Photo: The CW.)

Do you think the Riverdale finale will end with death? How do you think Cheryl and Jughead will react to their new circumstances? Sound off in the comments.