The principal cast sees KJ Apa, Lili Reinhart, Camila Mendes, Cole Sprouse, Marisol Nichols, Madelaine Petsch, Ashleigh Murray, Mädchen Amick and Luke Perry returning from the previous season, and introduces Mark Consuelos, Casey Cott, and Skeet Ulrich in starring roles.

On January 24, 2018, The CW announced the production of a musical episode for the season based on the Stephen King's classic novel, Carrie (novel).

[24] The episode, titled "Chapter Thirty-One: A Night to Remember" was first screened at the PaleyFest LA Spring Season in March 2018[25] and premiered on The CW on April 18, 2018, receiving positive reviews from critics.

On April 25, 2017, it was announced Mark Consuelos join the season to play Veronica's father, Hiram Lodge.

The site's critics consensus reads: "Riverdale enters its sophomore year with an off-kilter new murder mystery while continuing to up the hormonal teen melodrama.