Exclusive: Adam Hughes' 'Death Of Archie' Variant Cover

It isn't yet clear just how Archie Andrews will exit this mortal coil in the "Death of Archie" story starting in next month's Life with Archie #36, but one thing that's pretty clear is that the cover art is going to be pretty spectacular.

Archie Comics unveiled most of the covers for issues #36 and #37, which feature illustrations from artists such as Fiona Staples, Francesco Francavilla, Walt Simonson and Jill Thompson back in April, but Adam Hughes' cover wasn't finished yet. Now it is, and it's a moody, evocative image centering on a glass of soda left with no one to drink it. Is it perhaps a clue that Archie died of kidney stones or type-2 diabetes? That we'll have to wait to find out, but we can all see the full cover right now.

Hughes is often regarded as an exceptionally talented cheesecake artist, but pieces like this one really go a long way to show how talented of an illustrator he really is. There's a sort of dark Norman Rockwell vibe to this cover that really makes it click. There's a palpable sadness to seeing that glass there, serving as a reminder of a lost friend. Betty's body language is particularly evocative.

Here's the full solicit for issue #36, which hits stands July 16:

LIFE WITH ARCHIE #36 (Comic Trim)
History is in the making in this epic finale to the acclaimed series LIFE WITH ARCHIE, as America’s most beloved character makes the ultimate sacrifice to save a friend. The unthinkable happens: Archie Andrews dies! Fans will experience an epic tale of Archie’s future sure to make headlines, generate discussion and stand as one of the most-talked about Archie stories of all time. Do not miss this game-changing tale of love, friendship and true heroism.
Script: Paul Kupperberg
Art: Pat & Tim Kennedy, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli, Glenn Whitmore