Talking Archie Comics And Wonderteen X WIth Bill Golliher And Holly G!

Rachel Bellwoar: Unlike Powerteen and Superteen, who go by single monikers, what made you decide to add the “x” to Wonderteen X, Bill?

Bill Golliher: My thinking was that the letter “X” often represents an unknown quantity or variable in math or geometry, while in English, “X” often represents the unknown as in X-rays, which baffled its own discoverer. I surmised it would add to the mystery surrounding the new hero’s true identity to go with that moniker.

Bellwoar: When coming up with a superhero or villain from scratch, is there a place you start first (for instance their name or superpowers)?

Golliher: With She-vil, I would have to say it was the name that came first. That started my wheels spinning to bring the character together. Superpowers would be another route to get there, but I have always enjoyed the creative puns and clever titles used in Archie Comics since I was reading them as a kid, and I enjoy taking that approach.

Bellwoar: While Betty and Veronica were quick to peg purple as Wonderteen X’s signature color, I wasn’t so sure at first since, besides their hair, they also wear red and yellow. This latest story really cemented it, though, when Wonderteen X went into X-mode. Is there a greater significance to the use of purple?

Golliher: The color purple is a rare occurring color in nature, so I feel it lends a sense of mystery and magic that maybe other color schemes wouldn’t convey as easily. This could add to the mystery and power of the new character we developed. In that case, her X-mode would scream for mega-purple.

Bellwoar: Where did the idea for She-Vil’s genie come from and did you consider different options for the genie bottle, Holly?

Golliher: Okay, I’ll confess, I’m a big I Dream of Jeannie fan from back in the day watching it after school. I thought it would add a greater sense of mystery to the story to create a magical and historical villain. Also, having She-vil residing in the museum gave us a great reason to have Betty, Veronica, and all the Wonderteen X suspects front and center.

Bellwoar: For She-vil herself, how much did her devilish name influence your design?

Holly G!: When I found out she’s from Mesopotamia, my curiosity went wild! I couldn’t help but dive into researching all those incredible artifacts—talk about ancient bling! I studied Egyptology as a minor in college, and since Mesopotamia came first, it felt so natural to explore. I wanted to make sure She-vil has that authentic vibe—whether she’s being villainous or not—I wanted her to be strong, beautiful, and totally representative of her time.

So, there I was, digging into all the fabulous costumes, hairstyles, and jewelry from back in the day. And let me tell you, it’s a treasure trove of inspiration! Plus, as someone who loves embracing mythology (I’ve even got some deities hanging out on my altar!), it was super fun looking into how these powerful figures worked. They aren’t always evil; sometimes they just react based on whether you annoy them or charm them! This idea really sparked my imagination. Just think of the possibilities with She-vil’s immense power—it can swing either way depending on how you treat her! It adds such an exciting twist to her character. Overall, this whole process has been an absolute blast bringing She-vil’s story and history to life!

Bellwoar: While our heroes and villains are quick to move their disagreement outdoors, was it fun getting to set a few scenes in the museum?

G!: Absolutely! I grew up in Manhattan, and every single week—if not twice a week—I would go to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I nearly lived there because I loved it so much! I even took art lessons there, and on Tuesday nights, we’d stay late and have dinner surrounded by all that beauty. My favorite rooms were definitely the Egyptian and 18th-century rooms. So, setting up a museum scene was incredibly easy and fun for me! Plus, I’m glad they took it outside so we wouldn’t risk breaking any of the beautiful artifacts in the museum!

Bellwoar: What’s the best part about getting to stage action sequences?

G!: Honestly? It’s completing them so they look good! I’ve never considered myself an action or superhero artist; my heart really lies with romance, comedy, horror, science fiction, and fantasy. So, I’ve always felt a bit nervous about tackling superheroes. But when I read this script, I absolutely loved it—it was such a blast to work on! Whenever I’m doing superhero scenes, I try to channel my husband Jim Balent’s Catwoman energy. It brings out something special in me! I hope you all enjoyed it as much as I did because working on this script made me feel pretty brave and happy!

Bellwoar: Did you always know you wanted to tease out Wonderteen X’s identity, Bill (hence the decision to have her wear a mask that completely conceals her face)?

Golliher: You got it; we thought it would be interesting to keep her identity a secret for a while to keep everyone guessing.

Bellwoar: While three candidates have been proposed so far, as to who Wonderteen X might, would readers be wrong to count out other suspects?

Golliher: Of course, it could be anyone! I thought it would be fun to introduce a few possibilities along the way (especially Ms. Grundy) until one of them steps forward, or the real Wonderteen X is revealed. In the meantime, keep reading!

Bellwoar: Thanks for agreeing to this interview, Bill and Holly!

To check out Wonderteen X’s first two appearances, be sure to pick-up Betty & Veronica Jumbo Comics Digest #327 and World of Betty & Veronica Jumbo Comics Digest #35 from Archie Comics.