Pureheart the Powerful

Pureheart the Powerful is Archie Andrews' superhero alter ego, first appearing in 1965. When Archie's pure heart generates a special power, he transforms into this caped champion, fighting evil in the tradition of classic comic-book heroes.

Bursting onto the scene in 1965's Life with Archie #42, Pureheart the Powerful is one of the Silver Age's most charming surprises — a superhero identity born right in the heart of Riverdale, courtesy of writer Frank Doyle and artist Bob White. For nearly six decades this character has popped up across Archie digests and annuals, sharing adventures with the beloved Riverdale regulars: Archie Andrews, Betty Cooper, Veronica Lodge, Jughead Jones, and Reggie Mantle. With at least one collector-recognized key issue to their name and 45 catalog appearances spanning all the way to 2024, Pureheart is a delightful reminder that the Archie universe has always had a playful, cape-wearing side worth seeking out.