CRAZINESS
Last night, JUGHEAD won the Eisner Award in the Humor category! I couldn’t be at the ceremony, but it was pretty great to see photos of my pals, Ryan, Erica and Derek, up there getting those trophies. I think that’s Ryan reading my too-long speech that I sent him in case we won (I stole that pic from Comixology. SORRY).

Starting this book with Erica, one of the most talented people I’ve ever met, was a dream. Getting to continue with Derek, an extraordinary artist who exudes fun on the page, extended that dream. And then reading the book when Ryan took over with Derek was yet another dream, getting to enjoy it as a reader. I could not have asked for a better Eisner winning scenario than with this group of people.

Here’s the speech I gave to Ryan:

“I’d like to thank Mike Pellerito at ARCHIE for bringing me onboard for the JUGHEAD relaunch, which was a childhood dream come true. And I’d like to thank Erica and Derek for their amazing art on the series. Erica crafted a fun, modern vision for these characters, and I’ll always remember when she told me I was the best writer she’d ever worked with. That truly meant the world to me.

Derek seamlessly picked up where Erica left off, deftly handling some difficult and emotional scenes. They’re two of the best artists in the business, and every company should be showering them in money ha ha just kidding this is comics

And then there’s Ryan.

Ryan, I am so proud of you, of the man you’ve become. You’ve always been so kind and generous with others, and to see you succeed like you have has truly been one of my life’s greatest pleasures. Looking at you now, all grown up and handsome, in your reasonably priced suit and tie, I know that the sky is the limit for you and your dreams.

I love you more than anything. And remember that I’m there with you now, watching from Heaven; which, as you know, is the gentleman’s club here in Toronto that broadcasts the Eisner Awards every year.

Take care,

Chip”