That headline sent shockwaves and started heated debates in many parts of the world this week, with most fans of one of the longest-running love triangles despairing that Archie Andrews has chosen the rich and glamorous Ronnie over the sweet and simple Betty.

But is it really that different a story from those dished out by Bollywood or the many TV serials? Perhaps the guy is rich. Perhaps the girl is wealthy and doesn’t tell the guy. Perhaps the guy has a wealthy father and doesn’t know it. But the end result is always the same.

The guy/girl with the rich dad gets the girl/guy. Every time.

Of course we have our great love stories that romanticise the poor lover: rich girl meets poor boy, they fall in love, she defies her stern dad, they run away and live in penury but happily, dad finally forgives her and they all live happily ever after in daddy’s big mansion.

Or, rich boy meets poor girl, they fall in love, he defies his authoritarian dad, they run away and live in penury — it still ends the same way.

So, are untold riches a great turn on? Or is it a matter of opposites attract? Or is it just a sign of the times: given the current economic environment, Archie — who doesn’t have Dilton’s brains or Reggie’s smarts — has no hope of landing a job. Popping the question to Ronnie will at least give him a shot with Mr Lodge. Love in the time of recession?

Reuters Blogs