Betty the Beatnik

[alicemacher]

It's well known that Archie Comics was one of the leading publishers behind the implementation of the Comics Code Authority which kept comics squeaky-clean and decent for the tiny tots. But are you familiar with the expression "getting crap past the radar?"


From Archie's Girls Betty and Veronica #68 (Aug. 1961). Credits in the first scan. Two of six pages.







Veronica sends Archie in to talk sense into Betty. When he doesn't come back out after a long time, she sends Reggie in after the both of them.







Sure, this is one of many "latest fad" stories that have been Archie Comics' bread and butter since 1941. But look again at the expressions on Betty's, Archie's and Reggie's faces. Note the reference to "sittin' around all day! Thinking deep thoughts!" Looks like they've been up to more than just drumming, listening to jazz and spouting "bop" slang, doesn't it? And don't tell me Doyle and DeCarlo didn't know exactly what they were doing here. Endsville, man!

Comments

[kamino_neko]

AKA: The Gang Decides to Hot Box.

[crinos]

So how did they all eventually get snapped out of it?

[alicemacher]

They didn't! Veronica finally sends in Jughead, who takes one look at what's going on, walks out and angrily asks her what kind of joke she thinks she's playing. Veronica says she finds nothing funny about beatniks. Jug, embarrassed, says he'd thought Betty, Archie and Reggie were meant to be imitating him. The End.

[bradygirl_12]

Jug, the Original Beatnick/Hippie! Though hamburgers are more his drug of choice, man. ;)

[leoboiko]

I find Betty quite pretty in this casual fashion.

Also, on the second panel first page, she has those sparkles often used to indicate drunkenness etc. (here surely meant to suggest "etc.").

[riddler13]

She is, isn't she?

Stoned

[capt_satellite]

Yeah....they've got the squints. Betty's got a friend who knows a guy.

[sarahnewlin]

I'm suddenly reminded of Barbara Billingsley