Hiram Lodge

"You wanted a more active role in Lodge Industries, and we let you have it. Then you break into my office and try to use whatever you find as leverage. Now I admit, there's a lot you don't know, and that's on purpose.{...} Mija, you think you want to know everything, but you don't."

- Hiram to Veronica

Hiram Lodge is a main character and one of the two main antagonists of the second and third seasons of The CW's Riverdale. He is also the concealed, hidden secondary antagonist of the first season. He is portrayed by Mark Consuelos.

Hiram is the husband of Hermione, and the father of Veronica Lodge. He is a powerful businessman and the CEO/President of Lodge Industries. He is later revealed to be in the drug dealing business and in the mafia. Prior to the start of the series, he was incarcerated at Yonkers Penitentiary and was awaiting trial for multiple counts of embezzlement and fraud. Despite his imprisonment, Hiram still ran his business and criminal empire from behind bars. He has been released from prison and has now taken up residence at the Pembrooke in Riverdale with his wife and daughter. Since his release, he has secretly purchased Pop's Chock'lit Shoppe, hiring Pop Tate as manager in exchange for his silence. Hiram is also business partners with Fred Andrews, working on the SoDale project together, an arrangement that was put in place by Hermione, in an effort to legitimize Lodge Industries.

He was also business partners with Manfred Muggs until he no longer needed him, resulting in Manfred and his family almost losing everything including their house. As a result of their partnership, Manfred was hospitalized.

Character Description
''A ruthless, handsome, charismatic businessman who is coming back to Riverdale after weathering a financial scandal that almost destroyed him. He is there to reconnect with his wife Hermione and, especially, his daughter Veronica, who is the apple of his eye.''

Early Life
Hiram grew up in Riverdale, where he was known as the rich kid. During this time, he dated Hermione, who broke up with Fred Andrews to be with him. Along with building a relationship with Hermione, he forged a rivalry with Clifford Blossom. It was later revealed that while attending Riverdale High School, Hiram was the wrestling state champion, earning him a trophy for his great achievement. After graduating, he and Hermione moved to New York, and some time later got married and had a daughter, Veronica, and they all lived together in New York living a luxurious lifestyle. However, their fancy life and luxurious living didn't last forever as Hiram was arrested for fraud and embezzlement.

Before getting arrested, Hiram had an ongoing arrangement with the Southside Serpents, a local gang in Riverdale. He hired the gang to decrease the value of the Twilight Drive-In, so that Lodge Industries could purchase the land for a low price.

Before his arrest, Hiram had an incredibly strong bond with his daughter, Veronica; She was daddy's girl. Whenever Hiram did something wrong, he'd bring her gifts home as a way to make up for it, such as Givenchy bags.

During the Lodge's annual July 4th party, the FBI barged in and arrrested Hiram for fraud and embezzlement, making the arrest in plain view of Veronica and the rest of the party's guests. Hiram's main concern during the arrest was to have Veronica led away from the unfolding shameful spectacle, while also asking his wife to call their lawyers.

Throughout Riverdale

 * -|Season 1=

Season 1
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Compensating the Serpents
Roughly three months after his arrest for fraud and embezzlement, from prison, Hiram sent Hermione a duffel bag filled with money, leaving her to wonder what it was exactly that he had gotten himself into.

Hermione would later discover that the money was meant to complete payments to the Southside Serpents for a job well done in de-valuing the Twilight Drive-In so that he could purchase it at the cheaper price using an offshore LLC. Initially, no one knew of this dealing other than Hiram, that is until he told Hermione, who went on to tell Fred, and so on.

Anonymous Buyer
Unbeknownst to Hiram at the time, Hermione was seeking to award the construction contract for the SoDale project to Fred Andrews. However, two out of three signatures were required, and with Hiram looking to give the contract to a less than legit company, Hermione needed Veronica's signature, in order to grant Andrews Construction the contract seeing as Hiram made Veronica a legal officer of Lodge Industries, after he was arrested. Unfortunately for Hermione, Veronica refused to sign. Although, with no other option, Hermione forged her daughters signature to move forward the contract.

According to Veronica, when Hiram got arrested, the police, lawyers, judge, and the courts took everything from him and his family, including their houses, cars, club memberships, yacht, and even the clothes off their backs. As Hiram would later come to discover, Hermione was having an affair with Fred Andrews, and she claimed that this was a result of Hiram making certain decisions that distanced him from the family. So, from that point on, Hermione would be making decisions that would benefit her. Soon thereafter, Hermione called Hiram from prison and confessed about forging Veronica's signature in order to award Andrews Construction the land contract

Warfare; Lodges vs Blossoms
It was revealed through Hermione that the Blossom family was making a play for the drive-in land, and that if they found out that Hiram was the anonymous buyer, it would be open war. They were looking to stop construction on the SoDale project, leaving many to believe that the Blossoms were responsible for the attack on Andrews Construction. However, FP Jones and Hermione would later come to find out that Hiram hired several guys from Montreal to come down and trash the work site after discovering that Hermione was having an affair with Fred.

With his trial quickly approaching, Hiram's lawyer would be visiting Hermione and Veronica to take their statements. This left Veronica questioning what she should say, and if her father even deserved to be released. To further complicate the situation, Veronica learned that one of her friends, Ethel Muggs, was having problems at home. Her family lost all their funds due to their investments with Hiram, thus intensifying Veronica's anger towards her father. The Muggs would be testifying against Hiram during his trail, which Veronica agreed they should as he was a bad person that was ruining lives. To make matters even worse, Manfred Muggs attempted to take his own life. At that point, Veronica decided that she was done lying for her father.

After weeks of keeping this secret, Hermione finally decided to tell Fred that she and Hiram were the anonymous buyers of the drive-in land, and that he was working for Lodge Industries. She was hoping to turn the business legitimate, which meant partnering with businesses like Andrews Construction. She then revealed that it was Hiram that sent the thugs to attack the work site after learning of their affair. It was later discovered by Archie that Hiram was set up and sent to jail by Clifford Blossom, leaving many to suspect Hiram of killing Clifford's son, Jason Blossom.

Upcoming Trial
As expected, the ladies received a visit from Hiram's attorney to take their statements for the hearing. Even though Mr. Sowerberry only asked that Veronica speaks to Hiram's character in order to humanize her father, she refused. After learning from her friends that Cliff Blossom was responsible for Hiram's imprisonment, Veronica took it upon herself to do some investigating. She found a spreadsheet of monthly payments dating back 75 years from Blossom Maple Farms to Lodge Industries until about five months ago, just after Hiram was arrested. Veronica believed that Clifford implicated Hiram to get out of paying the monthly fee. She suggested that they inform his lawyer of this, however, Hermione decided against it as it may lead people to believe that Hiram was involved in Jason's murder as retaliation.

Aware that she was feeling conflicted over testify during his trial, Hiram sent Veronica a letter, in which he essentially threatened Veronica and Hermione. Although, it was never explained how she knew, and whether or not the rest of her family knew, Cheryl Blossom exposed Hiram as being the anonymous buyer for the drive-in land to an entire party worth of students. It seemed as if Veronica decided to heed her father's warning as she testified on his behalf. Afterward, he sent her a pearl necklace to show his gratitude.

Thanks to Veronica's statement, Hiram would be returning home soon. The Judge ruled on time served, he'd be free within a few months at the most. Upon learning that her father was begin released, Veronica felt conflicted. She still suspected that maybe he was involved in Jason's murder, and she was dead set on proving it. However, just as she was ready to give up, and accept that he had no involvement in Jason's death, FP Jones was arrested for killing Jason, leaving Veronica to believe that her father might have hired him to commit the murder.

Orchestrating Jason's Murder?
Almost immediately after learning of FP's arrest, Hermione began to panic as they were known associates of the man that killed Jason Blossom. While she was still unsure if Hiram was involved or not, Hermione wanted to be prepared to run should the time come. Inside the motel room of a deceased Southside Serpent named Mustang, the police found a duffel bag filled with money, with the initials "H.L.". Initially believed that it belongs to Hermione, Veronica told Sheriff Keller that it, in fact, belong to her father, and that he had business with the Serpents. Following the discovery that FP's confession was false, and that Clifford killed Jason, Veronica apologized to her mother for ever considering the possibility of her father killing Jason. However, had Hiram been involved, both Veronica and Hermione were willing to cut all ties with him. Hermione then revealed that Hiram was coming home.

With Hiram returning home soon, Hermione fired the Serpents working for Andrews Construction as she couldn't have the project associated with criminals. After talking it over with Hiram, the two of them decided that it would be best to buy Fred out of his contract, which Fred considered but ultimately declined despite the way that he and Hiram felt towards each other. }}
 * -|Season 2=

Season 2
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Release from Prison
Hiram returned to Riverdale following his release from prison. He sat at the table with Hermione at his side, awaiting Veronica's return home. Veronica entered the door soon thereafter. He came home early to surprise her, but imagine his surprise when she wasn't there to greet him. Hermione chimed in, telling Hiram about how Veronica drank his Cristal. So disrespectful, Hiram remarked. Not like Veronica at all, to which she admitted to changing since the last time they saw one another. The only question left was whether or not Hiram has changed, which he may have, but not so much that he still doesn't want a kiss from his daughter. Veronica approached to kiss him on the cheek before informing him that Fred Andrews was recovering from his gun shot wound.

On his way in from an early run, Hiram wanted to address the fact that Veronica was actively avoiding him; leaving before breakfast and coming home after dinner. He couldn't even recall the last meal they ate as a family. However, Veronica reminded him that their last meal was the day he got arrested at the Dakota. Hiram then suggested that they talk about his arrest over dinner, but Veronica claimed to have plans that evening.

Later that day, Hiram surprised Veronica at school with a beautiful bouquet of yellow roses, asking if he could speak to her privately. Just outside the school, Hiram explained that every day he was in prison, he thought about getting back to Veronica and Hermione. And while he knew it wouldn't be easy, and knew it would take time, he was hoping that Veronica would at least meet him halfway. It's not that she didn't want to, but as Veronica put it, the blindfold's off, and she couldn't just put it back on. Hiram's arrest and the events that followed resulted in Veronica seeing him in a whole new light. As Veronica prepared to reconvene with her friends, Hiram offered to help with her crusade to save Pop's Chock'lit Shoppe from closing in any way he could.

That night, as Hermione and Hiram enjoyed a meal together at the dinner table, they were interrupted by Veronica, who accused Hiram of buying Pop's shoppe in an effort to buy her. Hiram denied the accusation before insisting that Veronica sit down so that they could speak civilly. All he wanted was a fair hearing to explain himself. Veronica suggested that they talk about Fred and the shooting at the diner, since Fred was shot one day after he rejected the offer to sale his portion of the SoDale project, which left Veronica wondering if it was Hiram that called for Fred to be shot. Hiram insisted that the attack at the diner was not his doing. Unconvinced with Hiram's statement, Veronica explained that she was his fiercest protector, which Hermione could vouch for. Whenever someone called him the devil incarnate, she always came to his defense, telling herself that Hiram wasn't that bad and that he can be forgiven. However, all that changed when she received a letter from him, threatening Hermione. After reading the letter, Hermione informed Veronica that Hiram didn't write the letter, she did. She wrote the letter threatening herself in order to get Veronica to testify on Hiram's behalf, so that they could come together as a family once more.

The following night, Hiram and Hermione showed up for Retro Night in support of Veronica and her cause to keep the diner from closing. Much to their surprise, Veronica was willing to start over after taking into consideration how the evening was also a new beginning for Pop's. However, she asked for total transparency in return. The thought of being a family again excited Hiram, so much so that he gave Veronica a hug. In the spirit of that, Hiram proposed that Lodge Industries make a "charitable contribution" to the diner.

After a show of appreciation from Pop Tate, during which time he personally thanked the Lodges for their generous donation, Hermione remarked that she wasn't aware that they were in the charity business. We're not, Hiram replied. As of five minutes ago, they owned the diner. He had secretly bought the diner from Pop Tate, and in exchange for his silence, Hiram told Pop that he can stay on as manager. It was nice to have him back, Hermione stated. He then thanked her for lying to Veronica about writing the letter that he actually wrote. Veronica never would've forgiven him had she learned that he threatened her. Once again, Hermione has proven that her loyalty knows no bounds.

Hiram returned home with Hermione and Veronica, where they are greeted at the door by Andre, their new doorman. Hiram informed Veronica that Smithers' mother fell ill, so he went home, over seas, to care for her, and that Andre was his replacement

Manipulating Archie
Hearing Hermione and Veronica just outside his study, Hiram joined them in the main room, where Veronica asked if her inner-circle of friends could come over to watch the season premiere of The Matchlerette. He was even extended an invitation to join them as they were supposedly dying to meet him.

That night, Hiram and Hermione stopped by to meet Veronica's friends before leaving for dinner at the club. Veronica introduced him to each of her friends, starting with Betty Cooper, then onto Jughead Jones, the son of FP Jones, who Hiram claimed was a good man that valued family. He hoped that FP's return came sooner rather than later. Finally, he was introduced to Archie Andrews, the boy whose captured his daughter's heart. He and Archie shared a firm handshake as he instructed Archie to call him Hiram rather than Mr. Lodge. He couldn't help but hear their previous discussion in regards to the frustration they were demonstrating towards Sheriff Keller and his inability to catch the killer. As someone whose had his fair share of run-ins with the law, Hiram could say with confidence that the police weren't always the solution. Drastic times called for drastic measures, meaning they would have to take justice into their own hands. Before leaving, he invited Archie over for dinner later in the week. He looked forward to seeing what Archie came up with for saving Riverdale.

A couple nights later, as Hiram and Hermione prepared for another night out, Hiram assisted Hermione in zipping up the back of her dress, during which time he told her that sound carries in the apartment. Even in his study with the door closed, he could hear Hermione's conversation with Veronica earlier in the day, as if they were all together. If Hermione wished to burn down her relationship with their daughter, that was her business, but Hiram warned her against every trying to poison Veronica against him.

The following night, Archie came over for dinner as planned. Hiram asked him about Ethel Muggs, who he had rescued the prior night. Unfortunately, the individual stalking her got away. Admittedly, they needed to increase their response time, which Hiram understood as he too liked to be ahead of the threat. He then asked Archie if he's ever had rum. There was a signature Lodge family label that he had in his study, asking if Archie would like to try some. Of course he would, Veronica replied. However, she mistook this as an offer to join them, which it wasn't as Hiram asked that she stay behind, providing him and Archie with the opportunity to talk man-to-man.

As he and Archie looked up to the portrait of Veronica hanging in the study, Hiram told Archie that having Veronica over his shoulders kept him honest. On a more serious note, Hiram asked about the Red Circle, and Fred's position on the community watch group. Archie explained that his father was still trying to wrap his head around it. Moving forward, Hiram was hoping that they could grow to respect each other. This meant no more of Archie sneaking into Veronica's bedroom. Looking to revisit the topic of the Red Circle, Hiram did offer a thought. While it was a noble idea, evil had no regards for nobility or good intentions. Sometimes, defending one's self just isn't enough. Striking back is often in order. The killer, now calling himself the Black Hood, was waging a war based on terror and fear. Those are his weapons. They should be yours too, Hiram said to Archie.

While reading the morning paper at the breakfast table, Veronica proposed that she be granted an active role in Lodge Industries considering that she was a shareholder, though that was merely an honorary title, Hiram explained, leading Veronica to suggest that they make it a legitimate title. She wanted to get her hands dirty and be in the room where it all happened, to get a peek behind the curtains. Hiram agreed that as a Lodge, it was her right to be more involved in the family business. Following his discussion with Veronica, he watched from his laptop as Archie and his fellow Red Circle members, all of whom were wearing red masks, sent a message to the Black Hood, threatening to hunt him down.

With the Red Circle's public message to the Black Hood becoming a town-wide sensation, Hiram and Hermione questioned Veronica, who didn't seem to think it was as serious as they were making it out to be. Hermione explained that it was a video threatening violence, which in turn made Archie dangerous in the eyes of Hiram and Hermione, though the latter took it a step further by forbidding Veronica from seeing Archie any further. However, Veronica had no intent on breaking off their relationship without first getting Archie's side of the story. As Veronica left for school, a grin formed on Hiram's face, between the Black hood, the Red Circle, and the Town Hall meeting, there was so much chaos and confusion, providing the perfect opportunity for a business man like himself to capitalize off of.

While working in his study, Hiram was interrupted by Veronica, who returned home from school to ask about what he and Archie talked about during the night they invited him over for dinner. Hiram claimed to have no recollection of the specifics of his and Archie's conversation. Veronica was asking because one of the things she loved about Archie is how earnest he is, in more of an innocent sort of way, making him both trusting and kind. However, that simplicity also made him impressionable, as well as vulnerable to certain forms of attack, such as manipulation. If someone were to pour poison into one of his ears, a dark notion in the shape of the Red Circle may take form for instance. Hiram began to wonder if Veronica was suggesting that he had something to do with Archie's sudden reckless behavior. But Veronica explained that she wasn't suggesting anything, merely asking what he and Archie talked about. Unfortunately, just as Hiram said before, he didn't remember what he and Archie discussed. He then asked if Veronica could excuse him because the Swiss banks were about to close, and he had a call with the Lodge Charitable Trust to make.

Two days later, Hiram and Hermione attended the Town Hall meeting, where Mayor McCoy welcomed all to the event in hopes that she could address their concerns and if possible, ease their minds, as she too shared their desire to protect their town and their children. While the meeting started out peaceful, it quickly escalated, turning into a shouting match between two sides, with one side being spearheaded by Alice, who believed the south side was the cause of all their problems, and the other side being spearheaded by Fred, who believed that they were living in a time where they needed to unite rather than fraction off. Hermione had told Hiram that Fred was going to be a problem, though Hiram thought otherwise. The town loved and trusted him. It could work in their favor. It was then that Betty and Jughead entered through the back doors to alert everyone that the Black Hood would be striking at Town Hall next. Hiram and Hermione presumably evacuated the building with everyone else.

Hiram was joined in his study by Veronica and Hermione, who read aloud the latest published article from the Register, in which Alice Cooper accused him of wanting to profit off of Riverdale's misfortunes, rather than fix them. Hiram explained that they couldn't allow anything to derail the SoDale project, that included Alice, the southside gangs (Southside Serpents and Ghoulies), and the Black Hood. They're biggest problem was capital, which they were running out of at a fast rate, Hermione informed him. Fortunately, Hiram had invited potential investors to the open house, specifically the St. Clair's, who were coming up from New York. Veronica was thrilled to hear that an old friend of hers, Nick St. Clair, would be coming up with them for the opening. According to Hiram, he was a budding music producer, and his father was King Midas rich. If they could get the St. Clair's to invest, then others would surely follow. Hiram and Hermione looked to Veronica to help them close the deal by showing Nick the best sides of Riverdale.

Several days later, Hiram and Hermione arrived at the opening, arm-in-arm, greeting guests as they proceeded down the aisle. If the successful turn out of the open house didn't convince the St. Clair's to invest, nothing would. Hiram then called over Veronica to ask how things were going with her showing Nick the best that Riverdale had to offer. From all reports, Veronica's charm offensive was paying off.

While Hermione was wrangling Fred, and Veronica was off, quietly yelling at the caterer for allowing the canapes to run low, Hiram ran into an old friend; Hal Cooper. Where's Alice, Hiram asked. Just between them, Hal explained that the published mugshot of Alice's arrest, from many years ago, when she was a teenage Serpent, took a toll on her. So, they both decided it would be better if Hal covered the event on his own. However, imagine their surprise when Alice strolled into the event, wearing a red, snake patterned dress, with a golden serpent necklace.

Hiram, Hermione, and Fred took to the stage to make an announcement as the hosts of the event. A new story began in Riverdale that night. A story about reinvention and aspiration. The building would be the first chapter of that story. Luxury apartments, shopping, and even a golf course. The Southside as they knew it would be gone, replaced with a new Eden. So, they raised their glasses to a brighter tomorrow. But for that day, they would celebrate with a little music from Josie and the Pussycats.

Dealing with the St. Clairs
Hiram and Hermione arranged a meeting with Penelope Blossom after learning that Cheryl was roofied and nearly raped by Nick St. Clair at the Open house. Even though Penelope appreciated them calling her after Cheryl had told them of the incident, she still wished that they had stopped her from talking to Sheriff Keller, as she was skeptical of Cheryl's claims, and wasn't convinced that Cheryl was completely innocent, concluding that she somehow provoked her attack. However, Hermione stated that Cheryl was innocent in the matter, at least according to Veronica, who was present for the attack. Penelope then told Hiram that she wanted the situation to be handled discreetly, which was fortunate, given that Hiram was pretty certain that the St. Clairs shared that same sentiment. In closing, Penelope informed them that she'd tell the Sheriff that they wouldn't be pressing charges, because after all, nothing really happened to Cheryl, she believed.

Hiram and Hermione were called over to the Cooper house by Alice to deal with what happened at Nick St. Clair's party. All the parents, as well as their children attended. Alice deemed the party as a "bacchanalia free for all", pointing out that only her Betty was smart enough not to use the Jingle Jangle that was brought to the party. Hiram quickly replied to her rude remark, "careful throwing stones there, Acid Queen Alice. I'm not the only one in this room that knows the story behind that mugshot that your daughter printed in her paper". After Reggie Mantle confessed that he brought the drugs to the party, Hiram asked how he acquired it. Reggie revealed that he had a dealer on the Southside, who he suspected of being a Southside Serpent, as well as a student at Southside High. While they admittedly shouldn't have taken the Jingle Jangle, Veronica pointed out that Nick asked for it, and later pressured them into taking it. Furthermore, he attacked Cheryl. If anyone deserved to be interrogated, they believed it to be him. However, as Sheriff Keller explained, prosecuting Nick would be difficult given that they were all unreliable witnesses due to the fact that they were high, as Jingle Jangle remained in the users' system for up to three days. After Mayor McCoy learned that Josie experimented with the drugs as well, she declared that her number one priority as Mayor was to take over the Southside, even if it meant arresting every Serpent in sight.

Hiram and Hermione were playing chess in the living room, when Veronica entered to confront them on their business dealings with the St. Clairs, having learned from Cheryl that they were still allowing the St. Clairs to invest in the SoDale project, even after Nick attacked Cheryl. Hiram tried to make claim that Cheryl's accusations were not strong enough as she lacked any physical evidence to support what was being said. However, Veronica insisted that Cheryl was telling the truth, and she knew this because Nick attempted to do the same to her. Upon hearing this, Hiram's dismissive attitude toward the situation abruptly changed to anger, vowing to never take a single penny from the St. Clairs ever again.

The following night, the phone rang as Veronica read, while they played chess in the living room. Hermione picked up the phone, getting news from Andre that the St. Clairs had gotten into a car accident; Nick would gradually recover, with time, but Xander and Simone St. Clair's status were not mentioned. "Oh, well. Karma's a bitch", Veronica said, as Hermione and Hiram continued playing chess.

A Letter from the Black Hood
After receiving a threatening letter from someone claiming to be the Black Hood, Hiram and Hermione called Sheriff Keller over to investigate. As the Sheriff was leaving, Veronica returned home. Hiram informed her of the letter, and how it threatened that they would be targeted and punished for their sinful ways. Veronica was terrified by the letter considering that they were actually sinners, though Hiram and Hermione didn't express much concern given that dozens of households received the exact same letter. Not to mention that the Pembrooke was a fortress and Andre was trained in martial arts. In regards to Veronica's every day activities, such as going to school and shopping, Andre would drive her. But when he wasn't available, they'd hire a car service. After talking it over, Hiram and Hermione also wouldn't mind seeing more of Archie considering that he was brawny and devoted to Veronica.

The next day, while at the breakfast table, Hiram and Hermione learned from Veronica that Archie had said that he loved her, though she didn't say it back as she felt it was too soon. It didn't matter what Archie said or didn't say, it was about whether or not Veronica was ready to here it, Hiram and Hermione stated.

The Family Business
As Hiram ate dinner with his wife and daughter in the days leading up to Christmas, Hermione asked about the Spiffany's bag she saw him come in with earlier that day. It looked about the right size for a Glamerge egg, she commented. That depends on whether she's been naughty or nice this year, Hiram replied. Hiram assured Veronica that he had her Christmas list as well. But he asked of her to refrain from snooping as she does every year. However, for all Veronica cared, they could rip up her list. She expressed frustration with the wasteful ways in which they spend their money, with bejeweled eggs being one example. Veronica insisted that they realize how fortunate they were as there were people in Riverdale who couldn't even afford to pay their own bills, such as Fred Andrews who Veronica learned from Archie was drowning in medical bills to the tune of $86,000. Which is why she was hoping that Hiram and Hermione would cover his medical bill. Unfortunately, the Lodge Charitable Trust had made its donations for the fiscal year. Fred would have to tighten his belt, so to speak. However, as Veronica informed him, Fred was already selling Christmas trees for extra money. That's the kind of father he was, Veronica surmised. Regardless, Hiram wished to hear no more on the matter, storming off to his study.

The following night, Hiram and Hermione returned to the Pembrooke from last minute Christmas shopping after receiving a call from the bank, confirming a charge that was made from Hermione's credit card, in the amount of $86,000. They realized that it was Veronica's doing and came home to confront her. She deiced that Hiram and Hermione would cover Fred's medical expenses considering that they had the money to buy Pop's and then lie to her face about it. How is it that we can now afford a diner, Veronica asked. Hiram addressed the fact that she wanted a more active role in Lodge Industries, which they gave to her. In response, she broke into his office and tried to use whatever she could find as leverage against them. While Hiram admitted that it was a lot Veronica didn't know, he informed her that this was intentional. Veronica questioned how she could be apart of the family if they continued to hide things from her. Veronica thought that she wanted to know everything, but she didn't, Hiram remarked. Though, with her name being on all of the documents in Hiram's desk, Veronica insisted that she had the right to know the truth about everything. Hermione agreed. However, this would also mean that the time for being "Daddy's little girl" is over. It was time for all of them to work in lockstep. Hiram agreed, telling Veronica to follow him to the study.

In the study, Hiram and Hermione told Veronica everything about their family's business. She agreed to join them in running Lodge Industries, though she had one condition; she refused to do anything illegal. Which was fine considering that they denounced any illegal activity on their behalf as well. Hermione shared with Veronica two words to live by; plausible deniability. In regards to the charge that Veronica made towards Fred's medical bills, she wanted that to stick. While Hiram was initially against doing so as it would only complicate things, Hermione agreed to Veronica's demand, stating that they could smooth it over. Furthermore, they needed Fred for what would come next. Assuming that the Fred situation could be finessed, Veronica agreed to the deal with her parents.

On Christmas morning, the Lodges unwrapped their gifts, during which time, they informed Veronica that Archie had stopped by the day before to leave her a gift.

As Riverdale returned to a sense of normalcy, Christmas over and the Black Hood dead, Hiram and Hermione continued to conduct secret business meetings with Mayor McCoy, having hosted her at the Pembrooke. Hiram took her into his private study as Veronica looked on. Hermione briefly stopped, smiling and gave a wink to Veronica. Veronica returned the gesture in kind.

Hiram and Hermione took a moment to check in on Veronica. Hiram was concerned about how she was feeling with their established plan. Veronica assured them that she was still on board. Hermione pressed her further revealing the severity of what's to come. She explained that once completed, she would be at ground zero, i.e. the eye of the potential hurricane. Their concern went unwarranted; she believed, regardless of what's to come, she'll be fine. However, she assured her parents that she'll be able to keep her classmates from revolting once the news broke. With renewed faith, they nodded at their daughter in silence.

Later, at the Mayor's office, Hiram and Hermione discussed the closure of Southside High School. Sierra, having finished a conversation with Principle Weatherbee, mused that, with news of Southsiders headed to Riverdale High School, her phone was about to start exploding with calls from outraged parents. Hermione attempted to quell Mayor McCoy's concerns, telling her that it would only be news for a couple of days then it would blow over. She referred her to how quick Riverdale had stopped talking about the Black Hood since he'd been stopped. Hiram reassured her and claimed after a couple of weeks, the Lodges would quietly go about purchasing the land beneath Southside High. With Mayor McCoy's assistance in closing down the school, Hermione affirmed that she'd get her commission, a sizable donation to her re-election campaign. With business completed, Sierra's phone began to light up with phone calls.

That night Hiram and Hermione invited Archie up for dinner. He thanked the Lodges for helping his dad with his medical bills. The Lodges were happy to assist. Veronica explained that, in return, she had hoped he would stand beside her in welcoming the incoming Southside transfers. Archie agreed and took the opportunity to ask him and Hermione about the closure of Southside High. He assumed, that being close to the SoDale project, it's bad for business. Hiram corrected him, saying that drugs, gangs, and violence was in fact bad for business. Archie also assumed that investors, like the St. Clairs, must be fine with it as well. Veronica updated him, saying that they were no longer investors. Hermione confirmed that, due to what had transpired between Nick and Cheryl, they had severed all ties with the family; they didn't even call them after the accident. This news gained Archie's attention and so he asked what happened. Hiram claimed not to know what truly happened, that he either had a car accident driving back to Vail or on the slopes. Archie asked if he was okay, though Hermione assured Archie that he'd recovered enough to be back at Greenwich Prep.

In the coming week, Hiram and Hermione checked in with Veronica after a tumultuous week of turmoil between Southside and Northside integration. They'd learned some news from Mr. Weatherbee, relayed to them from Mayor McCoy, that integration of Southside High was not going well. Veronica mused that Reggie was just being Reggie, however she elaborated that gang ware, specifically the Serpent Jacket, had become a flashpoint. She proposed that a charitable donation would help them, that looking the part would quell the ever rising tension. Considering their options, Hiram looked towards his wife; they accepted her proposal in silence.

Hiram, Hermione and Veronica attended a meeting at the Andrews house with Fred, Mayor McCoy and Sheriff Keller, where they discussed the students who had been transferred to Riverdale High a week ago. While they were fine, their parents were in Mayor McCoy's office everyday to demand that she reopen Southside High. Which is why Hiram, Hermione and Fred had discussed how their new neighborhood could use something positive to focus on. With Mayor McCoy's blessing, they'd like to make Pickens Day a celebratory event. Sponsored by Lodge Industries with Andrews Construction co-sponsoring. Mayor McCoy took this to mean that they wanted to make Pickens Day a commercial event for the SoDale, similar to their open house, though as Veronica pointed out, the open house was for investors while Pickens Day would be for North and Southsiders alike. Two halves of a whole coming together. Mayor McCoy worried that trying to distract people with a party would backfire, resulting in violence. While the Southside Serpents had been laying low, they were wild cards and reasons for concern. Having prepared for just that scenario, Hiram, Hermione and Fred had offered to hire the Serpents as security for the event since FP had told Fred that the Serpents were looking for work. Furthermore, the party would let the Southside know that they haven't been abandoned. The meeting, unfortunately, came to an abrupt when Archie returned home.

As a firm supporter and former wrestler for Riverdale High's wrestling team, Hiram sat in on the team's tryouts, during which time he ran into Archie. Which came as a surprise to Hiram since he was under the impression that basketball was more of Archie's sport. Archie replied that he was branching out. He told Hiram that he was in the 175 weigh class, but he was trying to get down to 170. Chuck Clayton then joined in on the discussion to tell Archie that it was a good thing that they weren't in the same weight class, otherwise he would've wrecked Archie. Coach Kleats then blew his whistle, calling the team in and asking that they give Hiram "the Ram" Lodge, a round of applause for bankrolling the team. Not everyone would make the cut. So Coach Kleats advised them to make each match count. Archie paired off for "up and downs" with Kevin. Hiram and Tom watched from the sideline as Kevin out wrestled Archie back-to-back.

While working in his study, Hiram got a call from Jughead who was working on a article about how General Pickens massacred the Uketna tribe and stole all their land that he was building on. Realizing that this could mean trouble, Hiram abruptly ended his call with Jughead.

Later that night, Hiram entered Veronica's room to find her and Archie rehearsing for their Pickens Day performance. Archie offered to take it to the living room in the case that Hiram was uncomfortable with them being in Veronica's bedroom together. But he assured them that they were fine just as they were. Admittedly, the thought of Archie and Veronica being in her room alone used to upset him deeply. But after seeing Archie's wrestling performance earlier that day, he was less worried. While not everyone could wrestle as it took a certain kind of man, Hiram told Archie that there was no shame in admitting defeat and accepting the fact that he was better suited to performing with the Pussycats. While Archie may not have been a star wrestler yet, he was an incredible musician, who according to Veronica, was even sexier when he sung. Archie thanked Veronica for her support with a kiss. But on second thought, he had decided against performing with the Pussycats. He decided to go home and practice some moves that Kevin had showed him. But not before getting reassurance that Hiram would be at the next tryouts.

The next day, at tryouts, they were focusing on fundamentals, starting with the fireman's carry. And since it was his signature move back in the day, Coach Kleats had asked Hiram to demonstrate. In doing them the honor, Hiram called on Archie to be his volunteer. On the mat, he encouraged Archie to come at him before taking him down in one swift move. With Archie tackled to the mat, Hiram explained the simplicity of the fireman's carry. While it is fairly simple to execute, it's also an effective move when your opponent gets cocky by dominating your rival. Demoralizing him is the key if you want to win. While trapped in a headlock and pinned to the mat, Hiram pulled Archie closer to ask if he got the message, that he always wins.

Hiram received a surprise visit from Archie at the Pembrooke that night. He came wondering why Hiram didn't like him as he couldn't think of one thing that would account for the hate he was getting. Hiram told Archie that his father slept with another man's wife i.e. Hermione. Why shouldn't Hiram assume that Archie had the same weak character. Archie exclaimed that he was his own man and that he would never sleep with someone else's wife. Assuming that was true, Hiram still felt as if Archie wasn't good enough for Veronica in any respect. He wasn't worthy. Hiram didn't believe that Archie would ever be able to take care of her, but as Archie reminded Hiram, he took care of Veronica while he was in prison. When she and Hermione moved to Riverdale, Archie was there for Veronica when Hiram couldn't be. As the animosity began to boil over, Veronica entered the room to the sight of what she called a juvenile chest-thumping contest. Hiram assured her that this wasn't the case. He claimed that he had invited Archie over to plan some one-on-one training. But Veronica wasn't buying it since she could see the urge to kill the other in both of their eyes.

At 4:31 in the morning, Hiram called Archie to tell him to meet him outside in five minutes. In the early hours of the morning, the two of them went on a run around town and of the two, Hiram proved to be the faster runner. Following their run, Hiram and Archie stopped to eat at Pop's, where he explained to Archie his love for wrestling. When it's two men on the mat, it doesn't matter who you are or where you come from, or even how strong you are. It's about sheer will and knowing your opponent. Maybe even better than he knows himself. Which is why, Archie would never win. Veronica had a lot on her plate at the moment. So Hiram didn't want her worrying about them. So now they can say that he helped Archie when they went for a jog and broke bread together. Hiram was willing to tolerate Archie until this phase ran its course. Hiram told Archie that he wasn't the first boy who had turned Veronica's head. While boyfriends come and go, fathers are forever.

On the final day of tryouts, Hiram invited Veronica to see Archie wrestle after he had lied to her and told her that they had worked everything out over a good talk. Little did Archie know, Hiram had arranged for Archie to go up against Chuck, who had the advantage given that he had more experience and was of a higher weight class. Hiram and Veronica watched from the stands as Archie and Chuck faced off on the mat. Archie and Chuck went back and forth for some time. But ultimately, Archie managed to gain the upper hand and pull the upset victory over Chuck, which certainly came as a surprise to Hiram, who watching from the stands with Veronica, gave Archie and round of applause for his performance.

At Pickens Day, Hiram approached Archie and shook his hand given his surprise victory of Clayton. As Hiram tried to pull away, Archie grasped his hand tightly, asking if they were done with the back and forth. Hiram then invited Archie over to the Pembrooke so that they could talk about a few things.

Hiram and Hermione watched from the crowd as Veronica and the Pussycats performed on stage. Half way through their performance, the Serpents marched into the park as a protest with duct-tape covering their mouths and signs that read 'honor this land' and 'sacred land'. With Sweet Pea and Fogarty at her side, Toni, who seemingly led the protest, stood in front of the stage to announce that they represented the dead and the silenced. Pickens Day was a lie. General Pickens slaughtered the Uktena tribe, Toni's grandfather's family. And the land in which they were standing on, would soon give way to a new Southside, which was stolen from them. While the Serpents couldn't bring them back, they could at the very least honor them. Hoping to defuse the protest and resolve any conflict, Hiram got on stage to applaud the Serpents for standing up for justice, as well as the honor and legacy of the Uktena, who contribute to the rich tapestry that is Riverdale, that is the Southside and that will be SoDale.

Later that night, as planned, Hiram and Archie talked business in his study at the Pembrooke. Starting on a blank slate, they discussed Archie's future plans. In five years, he saw himself in college with some kind of athletic scholarship. Hiram assumed it was to study music, but Archie explained that being a musician was his former self. He was now considering studying business. Maybe one day he'd even be able to buy back Andrews Construction. As long as Archie's dating Veronica, Hiram was going to demand the best from him and that required learning from the best. So he asked how Archie would like to start his business tutelage under his shepherding, like an internship. Before Archie could respond, he got a call, though he did not answer. He then directed his attention back to Hiram to accept his offer.

The following morning, Hiram, Hermione Mayor McCoy and Sheriff Keller gathered in Pickens Park after being alerted of the desecration of the General Pickens' statue. Its head had been removed and red paint covered the statue to simulate blood. Since Hiram and Hermione were calling the shots, Sierra asked how they would like it to be handled. Hiram demanded that the investigation of the missing head be handled swiftly and with extreme prejudice given that the most likely suspects were the Serpents.

In what was being described as a classic trope of mob movies, Hiram had taken Archie under his wing in a criminal apprenticeship of sorts. This aforementioned apprenticeship began with small errands, such as Hiram sending Archie to retrieve his dry cleaning and pick up his order from Pop's. With guests arriving in the upcoming days for Veronica's Confirmation Ceremony, Hiram made arrangements from his study. One of the guests who he spoke to over the phone was assured that Riverdale had excellent poutine. As Archie was on his way out after dropping off Hiram's dry cleaning and meal, Hiram tossed him a cash bag and told him to take it to Fred's trailer at Andrews Construction and to afterwards, pick up a pair of loafers that he had resoled at the Shoe Doctor on Main.

Hiram entered the living room to the sight of Veronica in her ceremonial dress. He was amazed with her beauty and excited that Veronica would be confirmed in front of the family. Veronica made him the happiest and proudest father alive.

The next day, in his study, Hiram confronted Archie after hearing that he paid Nick St. Clair a visit and roughed him up. Archie explained that when he found out about what Nick tried to do to Veronica, he became uncontrollably angry. Hiram was impressed with Archie's ability to beat up on Nick despite the fact that he had both of his legs in a cast. He respected that Archie was willing to go to such extremes in order to send a message. And he was relieved that Veronica had someone so fiercely protective of her. With some out of town guests coming in for Veronica's confirmation and a poker game scheduled for the night before at Pop's, Hiram asked Archie to lend a hand. He needed someone he could trust to keep the drinks filled and cigars cut.

Later that night, Veronica barged into his study to ask why he invited Archie to work his Casino Royal. She was worried that he might find out all their family's secrets. Though Hiram informed her that business wasn't discussed when the family gathers for such sacred celebrations as Veronica's confirmation. However, knowing her father, he had a agenda. So she demanded to know what it was. After hearing about how Archie took initiative with Nick st. Clair, Hiram wanted to see how Archie would handle himself in a room of his peers. If Archie and Veronica's relationship persisted, at some point, they may have to bring Archie in. And while outsiders aren't traditionally brought into the family, Archie might be an exception. Hiram believed that he may be more like them than he was initially given credit for. However, Veronica disagreed. Stating that he was nothing like them. And she didn't want him to be compromised. With that being said, Hiram told Veronica that she would eventually have to make a decision to either bring Archie in, or keep him on the outside, forever.

The following night, as planned, Hiram hosted the poker game at Pop's. Notably, he was having quite a lucky streak. During the game, he introduced Archie to his guests. Starting with Lenny Kowalski who ran canned meat out of Chicago. Then there was Carl Martin, of Martin Brewery. Finest beer in the Rust Belt. And lastly Poppa Poutine who owned a chain of hot dog restaurants in Quebec. Which is why no one had ever heard of him, Hiram remarked. Poppa Poutine inquired about the progress of the SoDale, though as Hiram reminded him, there was no talk of business during such times. Poppa Poutine then asked Archie for his name, recognizing Archie's surname, "Andrews". He recalled that Hermione knew someone with that same last name. Hiram replied that Fred Andrews was one of his business associates. Poppa questioned whose idea it was to make him a partner. Before he could answer, Pop Tate brought them their orders, though Poppa wasn't satisfied with his meal. When Hiram claimed ownership of the diner and demanded that Poppa Poutine apologize for his behavior, he refused and decided to go outside for some fresh air instead.

The very next day, Hiram sat alongside Hermione and his mother as Veronica's confirmation ceremony commenced with her and Josie singing a duet of "Bitter Sweet Symphony" from the Cruel Intentions soundtrack. He watched proudly as Veronica was anointed and confirmed by Monsignor Murphy. Afterward, during the post-ceremony celebration, Sierra told Hiram and Hermione that it was a beautiful service before handing them a deed. They were now the proud owners of what was previously Southside High. He later cut in on Veronica's dance with Archie. During which time, after thinking it over, Veronica told him that she didn't want Archie to be brought in and made apart of their life of crime.

Archie approached Hiram during the party to ask that they talk somewhere private as he had something important to tell him. They headed up to the study where Archie revealed that Poppa Poutine was plotting against Hiram. At the poker game, he said that Hiram was getting sloppy and that action needed to be taken. Hiram thanked Archie for delivering this message. He then sent him back down stairs to ensure that Veronica was having a good time. Once Archie was gone, Hiram made a call that would ultimately end with Poppa Poutine getting shot in the back of the head and killed.

That night, after the party, Veronica received one last gift. She opened it to discover the head of General Pickens' statue. Realizing that it was actually for her parents, she called them over to deal with the head that was wrapped neatly in a box.

Picking up from where the previous episode left off, Hiram, Hermione and Veronica gathered around the head of General Pickens' statue as it sat on the table. Hiram interpreted the delivery of the head as a deceleration of war. Hermione added that they always knew that they would have to go to war eventually. But of course, there was another option. Veronica reminded them that at Spence, she was Secretary General of the Model UN, and before declaring war, they'd always try to negotiate a settlement. So if she could broker a detente between the Contras and the Sandinistas, then Hiram could surely de-escalate relations with the Southside Serpents. Veronica offered to get them to the table while all he had to do is play nice, which shouldn't be too much to ask for since he's such an accomplished businessman.

The following night, in his study, Hiram sat down with Archie to talk about Poppa Poutine and how he was killed in his hotel room. Hiram explained that he was gutted over the atrocity. But Poutine was rich with enemies. He was rude, and selfish, and deep into gambling debts, he owed a quarter to Lenny alone, not to mention the affairs. With so many vendettas against him, it was just a matter of time. And sadly, his time came the same night as Veronica's confirmation. Speaking of which, Archie told Hiram that when Veronica heard someone was murdered in Riverdale, the thought of Hiram, possibly being involved was making her spiral. And while Archie didn't want to overstep, he suggested that Hiram clarify things with Veronica to give her peace of mind.

Hiram approached Veronica after his chat with Archie as she was preparing for the negotiation with the Jones. He understood that certain aspects of his business were troubling, so if she wanted to know something, he was more than willing to answer her. Veronica asked if he had anything to do with Poppa Poutine's death. He claimed that he didn't.

At Sunnyside Trailer Park, Hiram thanked Jughead and FP for agreeing to sit down to discuss the misunderstanding. But they were aware of his actions and that it was no misunderstanding. Tall Boy had told them that Hiram paid him to decapitate the Pickens Statue as an excuse to turn up the heat on the Serpents. This had a lot of nervous people scared that they were going to lose their homes. Hiram had heard about that, and though it supposedly had nothing to do with him, he had spoken to Mayor McCoy. And as a gesture of good will to the Southside community, he offered to settle any back rent that they or their neighbors may owe the town. In return, Hiram claimed that he only wanted peace in the land. However, his true intentions were to bribe Jughead from mentioning him in the upcoming exposé that Jughead was writing. Unfortunately, Jughead refused to be compromised so he and FP turned down the deal.

Later that night, Hiram and Hermione got into a heated argument with Mayor McCoy, who as she exited the study, said that she was fairly close to telling Jughead everything and that it would be a lot worse for them than it would be for her. With Veronica standing just outside the door, Hiram and Hermione explained to her that given the hatchet-job that Jughead was writing about them, they decided it was best to accelerate the timetable. So they told Sierra they might have to announce their plans for Southside High, but the Mayor refused and demanded that they wait until after she's reelected. Should they proceed without her, she threatened to expose them. If this wasn't handled properly, the whole town would be out for their blood. However, if they got Sierra out of the Mayor's office, under a cloud of scandal, the damage she could do to them would be minimized. They would go about doing that by revealing her affair with Sheriff Keller.

The next day, Hiram and Hermione watched as Sierra resigned from office over a live broadcast. She claimed that seeing them through a triumphant Jubilee and the terrors of the Black Hood killings had taken a personal toll. So she had decided to step down as Mayor, to spend more time with her family and to return to her own legal career right in Riverdale. Hiram and Hermione were surprised by Sierra's sudden decision to resign since they hadn't even made their play yet. Veronica told them that this was good news since now they don't have to. If they did, it would be cruel. Shortly after Sierra's resignation, Hiram approached Veronica under the suspicion that she warned Sierra of their plan to expose her. However, Veronica claimed that she did no such thing.

Later that day, Hiram learned from Archie that he was approached by the FBI a few weeks ago to be an informant. But Archie assured him that he didn't tell them anything. Though, Hiram wondered what Archie would've told them. Archie revealed that he was instructed to plant a bug in Hiram's study, but instead, he smashed it with a hammer. The agent had been threatening Fred because Archie hadn't given up any information, and Archie didn't think he was going to stop until he did. Archie was telling Hiram all of this because he liked him and because he loved Veronica. Furthermore, Archie though that Agent Arthur Adams was a lot more dangerous than Hiram at that point. In coming clean, Archie was hoping that Hiram would help him and his father out of the mess they were in. Hiram agreed to deal with Agent Adams since it wasn't his first encounter with the FBI. He assured Archie that he wouldn't be harmed and that he did the right thing in telling him. Hiram then asked for 24 hours so that he could make some calls. Afterward, he would get back to Archie.

Although, he and Hermione had originally planned to go up to the lake house that weekend, they had to cancel due to an unforeseen business meeting. So Hiram suggested that Veronica and Archie go in their place as a romantic get-away. Hiram offered to send Andre with them. He could stay nearby and take them into town if need be. While Veronica was fine with Andre driving them down and later picking them up Sunday night, she insisted that Andre leave immediately after dropping them off. Hiram agreed to her demands, and he even suggested that they invite Betty and Jughead along with them. Before sending them off, Hiram asked to speak with Archie privately. He told Archie that while they were at the lake, he and Hermione would be hosting a meeting at the Pembrooke with the major New York families due to the unrest since Poppa Poutine's death. And he preferred if Veronica was out of town. The lake house was more so a safe house. He also informed Archie that Andre would be unseen but nearby in case anything happened.

By the week's end, Veronica, Archie, Betty and Jughead had returned to Riverdale though not without incident. Hiram learned from Andre and Veronica that the cabin was broken into by four masked intruders. Hiram assured Archie that he did the right thing in telling them to take what they wanted because it was both the smart choice and the only choice. Thankfully, none of them were harmed though Andre did have to handle one of them. So he wondered if this bothered Archie. Archie replied that the night they stopped the Black Hood, there was only one thing he regretted, and that was him hesitating the pull the trigger. Archie then handed Hiram Veronica's necklace that he had recovered from the intruder.

Moving Forward with SoDale
Hiram and Hermione invited Fred and Archie over for dinner at the Pembrooke where Hiram, Hermione and Fred told stories from their youth when they apparently broke into Thornhill for a swim and stole the school's van. Though Fred pointed the blame on Hermione and Mary, she insisted that it was Alice who stole the school van for a joyride. Hiram and Hermione then invited Fred into the study to proposed that he run for Mayor.

The next morning at the breakfast table, with the odds of Fred saying yes to their proposal being at about 50-50, Hermione suggested that Veronica influence Archie into convincing Fred to run for Mayor. Veronica influenced Archie while Archie influenced Fred, Hiram explained. When they revealed their plans, it would sound better coming from him as he was well respected in the community. While reluctant, Veronica agreed to her parents' request.

Hiram and Hermione watched as Veronica got blown off by Archie when she called him the next day after doing some research. Apparently, Fred needed 12,000 signatures before he could even run for Mayor. And so Veronica was thinking that the two of them could collect the signatures together. However, Archie claimed that he had homework to do before hanging up.

The following evening, Hiram got a surprise visit from Pop Tate who told him that Jughead was asking questions about the ownership of Pop's Chock'lit Shoppe, meaning that there was someone in their inner circle feeding him information. Hiram then approached Hermione and Veronica with this news as the only people that knew about the secret purchasing of Pop's were the three of them and Archie, leaving them to believe that Archie was the mole. Although, Veronica confessed to telling Jughead about them secretly buying Pop's in order to get him off their trail. She explained that Jughead was grilling her about SoDale, Southside High and Sunnyside Trailer Park while they were at Shadow Lake. Hoping to throw him off, Veronica distracted Jughead with the smallest truth she could, or so she claimed. While Hiram was enraged, Hermione claimed it was quick thinking. She agreed with Veronica's decision to feed Jughead a little bit of information in order to keep him from learning a lot more. Her gambit bought them the time that they needed for some preemptive damage control.

That night, Hiram spoke with Archie who accused him of being like Dracula, who bought property all over London so he could move his vampire kingdom over from Transylvania. The only difference was that Hiram was bringing organized crime to Riverdale. Even worse, he wanted Fred to be Mayor so that he could be their patsy. What if Hiram and Fred didn't see eye to eye, Archie wondered. In Archie's hand was his journal. When Hermione sent Arthur Adams as a fake FBI agent to test Archie, he started taking detailed notes of everything he saw while he was apprenticing with Hiram. Archie explained that he was merely looking out for his family though Hiram assured him that he had no reason to worry as Lodge Industries would be 100% legitimate and Riverdale would be crime free in 18 months. Hiram promised that they would all benefit. Archie decided to hold him to that.

The Lodges got a call a day later from warden Jeffries at Shankshaw prison who told them Jughead and FP paid a visit to an inmate, one of FP's well informed cronies. They suspected that Jughead and FP had learned everything regarding Hiram's plans for the Southside, meaning that it was only a matter of time before it made the papers. With their hands being forced, Hiram told Hermione to call Fred and Archie over to inform them of the master plan before Jughead could break the story. They revealed that their plans for Riverdale entailed turning Southside High into a private, for profit prison. As for SoDale, it was intended to be housing for the employees of the prison, Hiram explained. Unfortunately, Fred wasn't in support their plan. But surprisingly, Archie was, or at the very least, he was willing to hear Hiram out.

Later, in the study, Archie would forever sealed his fate with the Lodges. Hiram always knew that a prison would be a difficult sell. So he was going to ease them into the idea, and it was his mistake in not telling them sooner. Archie explained that before Jason Blossom's death, the Black Hood and his father getting shot, he probably wouldn't have understood Hiram's point of view. But he's changed, and he believed that Riverdale was in need of change too. Hiram grabbed a blade from his case as he told Archie that the tradition they were about to perform was a sign of loyalty and that there was no going back. Hiram and Archie both cut the palms of their hands and dripped blood onto Archie's journal, before throwing it into the fire.

Hiram and Hermione confronted Veronica after learning that she had punched Reggie Mantle in the face at school. Veronica apologized for stepping out of line, though she was suddenly determined to get Ethel Muggs' father a job at the prison to make amends for them ruining the Muggs' life. However, Hiram refused to oblige her request and demanded that she keep her head buried in the sand, so to speak.

In the study, Hiram asked Archie about Jughead's hunger strike. Archie told him that Jughead loved a political crusade almost as much as he loved a burger. From the contact he had, Jughead seemed to live in a fantasy world of ideals and theoreticals. What if Southside High were to reopen? Hiram, on the otheothand, lived in the real world. He saw what needed to be done, as did Archie. Hiram then announced that he was accelerating the timeline for the demolition of Southside High and he was hoping that Archie could send Jughead a message by giving him a flyer notice that Southside High would be demolished within the week.

The next day, Hiram and Hermione discussed their contract with Fred and his lawyer, Mary, who had just returned to Riverdale per his request following Fred's announcement that he wished to cut all ties with SoDale and Lodge Industries. Mary claimed the contract was exploitative and that Fred should be immediately released and compensated. However, before Hiram could counter, he got a call informing him that Jughead had rallied the Southside Serpents to chain themselves to the school in protest of the demolition.

The protest persisted. Every hour that passed, that Jughead was chained to the school, was bad for business. It was time to move Jughead and his fellow Serpents by force. Hiram suggested that Archie lead the Riverdale Wrestlers to stop Jughead. Archie initially refused, but he had made an oath of loyalty to the Lodges. If he broke it, Hiram told him there would be consequences. With that being said, Archie reluctantly agreed to do Hiram's bidding. But only if Hiram let his father out of all commitments to Lodge Industries.

Hiram and Hermione attended the school hall meeting at Veronica's school, where she and Archie squared off against Jughead, Betty, Reggie and Josie. Afterward, Hiram and Hermione exchanged words in the hallway with Fred and Mary as Archie and Veronica attempted to play peacemakers. All of Riverdale was buzzing about Fred's decision to run against Hermione for Mayor. When Mary pointed out that they were still waiting for Hiram to sign the papers to release Fred from his contract to Lodge Industries, Hermione addressed the fact that they were still waiting for Mary and Fred to sign the NDA that they had sent over.

Hiram, Hermione, Veronica and Archie arrived at the Pembrooke where they were greeted by Andre and Adams. In the lobby was Lenny Kowalski and Carl Martin. Two mob bosses who requested to speak with Hiram privately. While it was late, Hiram agreed to give them a few moments of his time. After telling Adams to take Veronica and Hermione upstairs, Hiram assured Archie that everything would be fine.

In his study the following day, Hiram and Archie discussed his associates from the night before, Lenny Kowalski and Carl Martin. Hermione's Mayoral campaign made them anxious due to the unwanted attention it would bring from law enforcement. Hiram was having dinner with them in hopes of smoothing it over with them, but in the meantime, he needed Archie to watch over Veronica. Archie agreed to keep an eye out for her, but in addition to that, he wanted to join Hiram for his dinner with Lenny and Carl. While Andre and Adams would be there, Archie always proved resourceful. And with Hiram's crew in Montreal going silent on him, he needed all the help he could get. So he allowed Archie in.

That night, Hiram had dinner with Kowalski and Martin as planned. Archie stood back with Adams and Andre as Hiram, Lenny and Carl began negotiating. They wanted 25% of the profit that Hiram would receive for his private prison in order for Hermione to continue with her campaign which was putting the families in the public eye. However, Hiram could not agree to such high numbers as he would be operating at a lost. So he respectfully declined their offer. Lenny and Carl grew upset, explaining that Hiram had nothing and that his men in Montreal and New York now worked for them. Hoping to convince them otherwise, Archie stepped forward and told them that he was not to be underestimated as he had beaten up Nick St. Clair, taken out Poppa Poutine and did the same to a hillbilly that threatened Veronica while they were up at the safe house. Despite Archie's stern approach, Lenny and Carl were not convinced. In fact they laughed at him. They then told Hiram to consider their offer.

In the parking lot, just after dinner, Hiram told Archie that he was like a mad dog. Archie explained that he refused to allow them to be disrespected in their own town. Nonetheless, firing a warning shot like that meant that he would have to back it up. All-in-all, Hiram was impressed.

The following evening, Andre was attacked in the lobby of the Pembrooke. Archie managed to unmasked the hooded assailant as he made his escape. The man under the mask was Adams. He had apparently double-crossed the Lodges. Adams then punched Archie and told him to tell Hiram to take Kowalski and Martin's deal. Archie relaid this message to the Lodges who weren't pleased. They concluded that Kowalski and Martin either offered Adams money or he sensed that they were weak and vulnerable. The message being sent was clear, either cut Kowalski and Martin in or suffer the consequences. With them being essentially unprotected, Archie offered to keep watch on the lobby. However, that was only a short-term solution to a long-term problem which Hiram had no answer for. As for the time being, they would circle the wagon. Any campaigning that Hermione needed to do would be done from the Pembrooke and Veronica was only ever to be at home or school, and Archie was to see her to and fro.

The next day, Hiram called Archie into his study to announce that he had made his decision. Hiram had decided to cut Lenny and Carl in on his profit from the prison or else they would destroy it as they didn't share Hiram's ambition to go legitimate. He'd pay them a cut for protection, thus preventing a war and ensuring everyone's safety. However, Archie didn't like the sound of that. So he devised a plan that would hopefully take care of the matter. Archie's plan involved rallying the Riverdale Bulldogs and blowing up Kowalski and Martin's car.

The following morning, Hiram, Hermione and Veronica arranged a surprise for Archie. They met him outside of Pop's Chock'lit Shoppe with a brand new car that they had bought for him. Archie was shocked and couldn't except such an amazing gift but they insisted that he take it, especially since he would have to continue his duty of escorting Veronica to and from school. While Veronica started up the car, Hiram pulled Archie to the side to explain that blowing up Kowalski and Martin's car was the very definition of a short-term solution which Archie was very much aware of. Their enemies would be back to take everything though Archie was sure they would be ready for them when they did. Archie then hopped in the car and he and Veronica headed off to school.

At the Pembrooke, Hermione asked Hiram if Fred had a shot at winning the election. In their favor, he's essentially running on a platform of family values with none of his family by his side. Luckily for them, Mary returned to Chicago. As for Archie, he and Fred have never been more distant, and Hiram planned to keep it that way.

After learning from Veronica that Archie was hiding Firebird, the car they had bought him, in the Pembrooke garage out of fear of how Fred would react, Hiram told Hermione that he had come up with a wicked idea to further strain their relationship.

Hiram entered woodshop as Archie and Fred were working on set pieces for the play. He asked Fred if Archie had taken him for a spin in the Firebird despite knowing that Archie has been keeping this a secret from Fred. Hiram claimed it was a gift for all the help Archie has provided for him and his family over the past few months. Fred claimed it was a pretty smooth ride.

Unfortunately, his plan to further strain Archie and Fred's relationship backfired. While Hiram may be his boss, Archie assured Hiram that getting between him and his dad is a battle he will lose every time. Archie then returned the keys to Firebird to Hiram.

The town gathers for Midge's funeral to pay respect. Cheryl sings a song in Midge's honor. She and the rest of the River Vixens are dressed in all-black cheerleader uniform. Midge's death has seemingly taken a great toll on Riverdale, Mrs. Klump and Moose especially. Hiram stands alongside Hermione and Veronica as the service commences.

With crisis comes opportunity, Hiram remarks. At the Pembrooke the following day, Hermione announces that she will be going door-to-door to ensure the residents of Riverdale that Lodges are for safety first, unlike Sheriff Keller. Hiram and Hermione then look to Veronica for assistance in one particular objective involving Cheryl given that she and Veronica are friends and that Cheryl seemed particularly devastated over Midge's death. However, Veronica wants no part of whatever schemes they're cooking up.

At the Pembrooke, Hiram and Hermione celebrate a small victory after she managed to recruit Cheryl herself. Veronica then gets a call from Nick St. Clair who has kidnapped Archie and is holding him for ransom. $1 million to be precise. Unfortunately, they refuse to pay Archie's ransom because Hiram won't be cowing down to who he describes as being a teen terrorist. With that, Veronica decides to call the police, but Hiram and Hermione warn her against it. The St. Clairs are a mob family with ties to the underworld. This entire time, Veronica was under the impression that they were only music producers. Now that she knows the truth, involving the police puts themselves at risk. Which i likely why Nick was so brazen and not even bothering to hide his identity. They ask Veronica to be patient but she can't. Not with all the terrible things Nick could be doing to Archie, like cutting his ear off. When Veronica leaves the room, Hiram tells Hermione that Archie isn't their blood. If they pay his ransom, it shows that they're vulnerable. And if that happens, Veronica will be targeted.

Hiram and Hermione return home to find Veronica standing over a large sum of money. Veronica explains it's ransom money from when she turned the tables on Nick and held him for ransom instead. His parents gave Veronica $1 million for her troubles. Hiram tells Veronica that he was dealing with it, but the thing is that the St. Clairs hadn't heard a thing about Archie's kidnapping. But Veronica leaves that up to her father to explain to Archie. In the study, Hiram offers to explain why he didn't assist in Archie's ransom, but Archie doesn't want to hear it. He thought about a lot of things while Nick was torturing him. One of those things was that he feels that he's proved himself in a lot of ways, but there's one step left. He still hasn't made his bones with Hiram. There's only one man Archie's interested in bringing down — the Black Hood. Hiram tells Archie that this would earn him his bones and that he'll help in whatever way he can.

In the study, Hiram informs Archie that his spies have told him that Archie was out campaigning for his father. Archie reveals that he was actually looking for the Black Hood. Archie remembers his eyes. Admittedly, what he was doing is insane, but he has no other choice but to go house-to-house. Hiram explains to Archie that he may be wasting his time and going about this all wrong. He recalls Archie saying that he wanted to make his bones. Assuming this is still true, Hiram tells Archie to reform the Dark Circle. He'll want back-up should he identify the Black Hood. While Reggie and the Bulldogs are surly fired up, Archie explains that they're loose canons. To help with that, a new Sheriff has take over, Michael Minetta. Someone Hiram knows very well. He instructs Archie to coordinate his efforts with the new Sheriff. Hiram will arrange a meeting between the two of them, but they have to move fast as there's no telling when the next attack will take place.

Hiram and Hermione discuss the Mayoral election. Hermione and Fred are neck-and-neck. And with the town divided over their prison, the debate is the single most important event of the election. While they already control the Sheriff Station and the Register, they need the mayor's office as well so that the prison can't be blocked. Hiram's counting on Archie's Dark Circle to cause unrest within the community. If Fred can't control his own son, then he certainly can't control a town on the verge of sliding into chaos.

Hiram and Sheriff Minetta run into Archie and Jughead at the Sheriff Station. Hiram had already told the Sheriff all about Archie and Jughead. Jughead explains that he stopped by to ask about the documentary footage that he lent to Sheriff Keller before he stepped down. While they chat in the Sheriff's office, Hiram asks that Archie accompany Veronica as she entertains Elio, the casino suitor.

Hiram and Hermione make their way over to the Andrews house after learning that Fred got a letter from the Black Hood. Prank or not, Hiram, Hermione and Archie want to cancel the debate, but Fred wants to go on. He asks if Sheriff Minetta can tighten security at Town Hall, which he can. Fred explains that the town is scared, but they need to show that they can't be cowed.

Hiram and Veronica talk about her casino proposal in which they would partner with Elio's family. However, Hiram explains that no business run by Elio's family is legal. Their casinos serve as fronts for numerous criminal activities. Unfortunately for Veronica, this partnership doesn't make sense for them to do considering they're on the verge of coming out the shadows and into the light.

Hiram is approached at the debate by Veronica. She's done her research, and has figured out how they can make the casino happen without involving Elio's family. However, Hiram doesn't seem interested. He brushes Veronica off and asks that they save the discussion for later. On stage, Hiram and Veronica stand just a few feet away from Hermione. They discuss plans to restore safety to the town, which they have already made strides with considering they personally recruited Sheriff Minetta from Centerville after Tom Keller resigned. As they go back and forth regarding Midge's death and whether or not Fangs is the killer, Veronica spots the Black Hood on the balcony with a rifle. He shoots at Fred, but Archie tackles him dad to the ground, saving him from being shot. As the Black Hood continues to shoot from the balcony, Hiram, Veronica, and Hermione hide behind their podium.

Afterwards, at the Sheriff station, Sheriff Minetta explains that there's a trap door leading from the balcony to the roof that isn't on any building plans. Sheriff Minetta then informs Hiram that he's got cars all over downtown. The shooter's not going to get far. He assures Hiram they'll catch him before the night's end. Given that Archie's come face-to-face with the Black Hood, looking him right in the eyes, Hiram suggests taking Archie along to help identify him. When asked if he's up for a ride along, Archie looks to Fred and decides to go home with him to ensure his safety.

The Lodges return to the Pembrooke. Hermione is shaken up. She can hardly hold her glass still. Veronica notices this. If tonight was any indication of what's to come, then maybe she should drop put of the race. Hiram refuses to allow that to happen. They've worked too hard on their plans. They can't quit when they're so close. Veronica reminds him that they were shot at, but Hermione agrees with Hiram that the plan must move forward. The campaign is bigger than her. She assures Veronica that she'll be fine. Veronica explains that Hiram is willing to put Hermione's life at risk all for his plan. Hiram demands respect from Veronica, but she questions where was her respect when he asked her to entertain the sons of his enemies or the respect that he showed her when she explained that she worked everything out with the casinos, only for him to brush her off. Regardless, Veronica's done the work and plans to go along with the casino plans on her own. Little does she know that Hiram has already put her the money that she got from Nick's ransom in a trust that she won't be able to touch until she's 21.

Hiram calls Reggie over to inform him that Fangs is being released sometime after midnight, but there's nothing anyone can do about it, short of taking justice into their own hands. Hiram is manipulating Reggie. He tells him that they must have faith in the justice system, even if it sometimes allows the guilty to walk free.

Hiram gets a call from Andre that he's picked Veronica up from the Andrews house and that he's bringing her directly home. Now that Hiram and Hermione know that Veronica is safe, one of Minetta's deputy's will take Hermione over to the Register so that she can make her announcement. They're taking an huge gamble, which concerns Hermione as there will be no way of controlling what will follow. Hiram counters that chaos works in their favor. They have the pieces in place to restore safety and order when Fred doesn't. Andre will also keep watch over Veronica. When Hiram says that he'll be out with another deputy, Hermione asks if he's keeping anything from her. He tells Hermione that now is not the time to start doubting him, before giving her a kiss.

Reggie calls Hiram, asking for help. Someone shot Fangs. It wasn't him, but he was there and now the Southsiders are after him. Unfortunately for Reggie, Hiram offers no help. He even laughs at Reggie.

Hiram calls Pop Tate after learning that the Ghoulies attacked the diner. While Hiram is happy to hear to that Pop Tate is fine, he is displeased to learn that Fred was involved in saving the diner, along with Tom Keller and FP Jones. Everyone is even referring to the three of them as heroes.

Hiram gets a call from Jughead. Fangs getting arrested, the riot, the Ghoulies showing up the night of the riot, with Penny Peabody in tow. None of this is happenstance, Jughead realizes. It was all orchestrated by Hiram, who claims to have no idea what Jughead is talking about. Hiram's been buying up everything he could, but he couldn't buy the Serpents. So instead, he paid Penny and the Ghoulies to go to war with the Serpents to get rid of them. Jughead wonders how much this is costing Hiram as he has a counter offer. Hiram agrees to hear him out as he meets up with Penny.

Hiram returns to the Pembrooke only to find that Andre has been murdered by the front desk. He runs upstairs, calling out to Veronica and Hermione. He finds them unharmed and calmly sitting at the dinning room table. Hermione tells him that there's another dead body in the study. With all this being his mess, Veronica tells him that he has to clean it up.

Hiram informs Hermione and Veronica that Sheriff Minetta delivered Andre and Small Fry's bodies to the coroner's office and tagged them as riot victims, so no one's going to be asking any questions. Hiram is sorry for the ordeal they had to withstand. Veronica takes this opportunity to reveal that she found Hiram's "October Surprise" file. Hiram tries to cover for himself, claiming that Hermione understands the cost of winning better than anyone. Veronica explains that she realized something. There will always be an October Surprise with her father. While her mother may volunteer to be his collateral damage, she won't. Hiram reminds Veronica to never lose sight of the bigger picture, but Veronica insists that she isn't the one who lost sight.

Hiram arranges a clandestine meeting with Penelope and Claudius Blossom in one of the old barns on the Thornhill estate. Penelope checks outside after they hear a noise by the door, but she discovers nothing.

Hiram is confronted by Veronica after she learns of his meeting with the Blossoms. Hiram claims that he's looking to diversify Lodge Industries' holdings by possibly getting into the maple trade. However, Veronica suspects that her father enlisted in Claudius to impersonate the Black Hood and have him shoot up the town hall debate. Hermione interjects, telling Veronica that she's out of line. While Hiram suspects that Veronica's imagination may be getting the better of her, Veronica counters that none of them can deny the possibility that Hiram would put Hermione in harm's way in order to accomplish his own personal/political agenda.

Hiram is approached by Veronica and the attorney she hired, Siera McCoy, to represent her in regards to the $1,000,000 Hiram plundered from her. Sierra tells Hiram that Veronica would like it back, but Hiram states that it's in a trust as he's looking out for her future. Given his resistance, Veronica threatens her father. If he doesn't release her funds, she'll start telling his secrets, like the fake Black Hood attacks, Poppa Poutine's murder, the crippling of Nick St. Clair, amongst other things. Veronica vows to expose all his dirty laundry if he doesn't hand her money back over to her. In fear that Veronica will follow through with her threats, Hiram concedes. Meanwhile, Hermione watches from the doorway as this unfolds.

Hiram arrives at the Whyte Wyrm to buy the bar from Hog Eye, however, he is intercepted by Veronica, who has already bought the bar as of two hours ago. She had the deed looked over by her attorney, Sierra McCoy. It's all legal. She's willing to trade the Whyte Wyrm for Pop's Chock'lit Shoppe. Hiram questions how Veronica knew about his purchasing of the Whyrm. Veronica lies and tells him that she learned this from the Serpents at the Andrews house the night of the raid. Hiram questions why she's risking war with him over Pop's. Veronica realized that Pop's is one of the only places left in Riverdale that she and her friends can call their own after learning how her father so callously fired FP. Hiram explains to Veronica that making this deal means that it'll be the last thing she ever gets from him, including allowances, trust funds and credit cards. As well as her third of Lodge Industries, thus relinquishes her vote, seat on the board, and legacy. Veronica agrees to these terms.

After the it is announced that Hermione has won the election, Hiram returns to the Pembrooke to find Archie in the study. Archie tells Hiram that he won everything he wanted. The Wyrm, the election, the Southside, and the town. In Archie's hand is a knife. After his dad was shot, Archie felt lost and powerless. Hiram took advantage of that by manipulating him. Archie reveals that he knows all about Tall Boy, that Hiram hired him to go after his dad, the same way Hiram got Andre to kill Poppa Poutine, and that boy at Shadow Lake, Cassidy. Archie practically saw that murder. He's also aware of Penny and the Ghoulies, who almost killed Jughead at Hiram's bidding. Hiram states that all Archie's claims are nothing more than delusions. Archie knows that all or any of this will be hard to prove. But he will. Archie's going to watch Hiram no matter where he goes or what he does. And when he does prove this, he's going to come for Hiram and make his bones once and for all.

Later that night, on the other side of town, at the Whyte Wyrm, Hiram calls a meeting with all his accomplices i.e. Penny, Penelope, Claudius, Malachai and Sheriff Minetta. It's been months in the making but the time has finally arrived. Hiram welcomes them all to New Southside. Penelope asks about Hermione, who Hiram explains can't be privy to certain machinations now that she's mayor. But the plan remains the same. The prison will soon be up and operational, with Claudius' drugs running through it. "Like brother, like brother", Penny comments. Malachai and his Ghoulies will be their soldiers and dealers, with Penny troubleshooting. And hopefully, doing a better job than she did of killing Jughead, Hiram remarks. However, as Penny explains, he wasn't breathing when they left him. Penelope reminds Hiram that he promised her a brothel, which Hiram intends to make good on. As for Archie, Jughead, Betty and Veronica, they are not of concern as far as Hiram is concerned as steps have been taken to tear them apart.

The next day, Hiram sets Archie up to be arrested by Minetta for the murder of Shadow Lake resident, Cassidy Bullick. He watches in the gym with a slight smile as Archie is led away in handcuffs just before his inauguration as student body president. }}
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Personality
Prior to this appearance on screen, the series has managed to paint a fairly detailed picture of his overall personality. Hiram is a dishonest and underhanded businessman. He is quite ruthless, willing to step on and double cross anyone and everyone in order to achieve his own selfish goals. He has even gone as far as to threaten his own wife and daughter.

During the Season 2 premiere, Hiram made his on-screen debut after being released from prison. He appeared to be a bit intimidating, as he sat at the dinner table asking Veronica for a kiss on the cheek. More than just intimidating, Hiram is very manipulative, especially towards his wife and daughter. However, he doesn't solely manipulate Hermione and Veronica, he also manipulated Archie throughout the second season, gaining Archie's trust and nearly tearing him apart from Fred.

Relationships

 * Hiram and Hermione
 * Hiram and Veronica

Gallery

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Promotional Images

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Season 2 Screencaps

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