Mark Consuelos Exits ‘Riverdale’ as Series Regular After Playing Hiram Lodge in 4 Seasons

The news was announced ahead of season five’s finale (Spoilers ahead)

Riverdale bids goodbye to its biggest villain: Mark Consuelos, who plays Veronica’s crime lord dad Hiram Lodge. Consuelos was part of the CW show for four seasons after he first appeared in season two.

Showrunner Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa also confirmed the news via Deadline. He added that Mark was a hundred percent committed to his role from the time he joined, and was up for “literally anything.” His job was, of course, to make Archie’s (KJ Apa) life a living hell. Roberto also added that Mark was the exact opposite of Hiram, and was “a classy pro and the sweetest guy, always looking out for everyone.” He also added that this won’t be the last time we will see Papa Lodge. That’s right, Mark is only exiting as series regular in Riverdale. He can always come back for minor appearances.

Consuelos’ statement

Riverdale
The CW

Consuelos also thanked the director for the incredible opportunity. He said that he never felt so good about playing such a bad character. He also thanked the fandom of Riverdale, the cast and crew, whom he considers friends and family.

Consuelos dominated the show with his role, and was a very convincing head of a criminal empire. His other goal was to keep his daughter Veronica away from Archie at all costs. Hiram always butted heads with Archie in the comics, often with hilarious twists, but the series put its own dark spin into it.

Hiram’s season 5 end

Riverdale
The CW

In the finale, Hiram was found guilty for murder, and was exiled from town by Veronica herself. He left, but not before he planted a bomb under Archie’s bed. Archie and Betty were last seen in his room before it exploded. We will see their condition in season 6.

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