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Salem is a character you'll see in both the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and the 1990s TV show, Sabrina the Teenage Witch. While there's a lot of differences between the character in both shows, his appearance hasn't really changed.

He's a slim, black cat with yellow eyes and just the littlest bit of white fur on his chest. In his original shape, Salem's a tall, skinny creature with black skin. He has a long strong tail and exceptionally sharp claws.

Early Life

Prior to being summoned by Sabrina Spellman, nothing is truly known about Salem. Therefore, the earliest moment is when he answered the young witch's summoning spell and became her familiar.

Throughout the Show

At first, it appears Sabrina Spellman's summoning spell had little to no effect. After all, Salem doesn't show up right away and actually doesn't at all, until later that same night. Approaching her in his regular shape, before taking on that of an almost entirely black cat.

Throughout the show, he sticks by Sabrina, popping up whenever she needs him or might end up being in danger. Their bond is that of equals, not exactly that of a master and their familiar. Which isn't a very common thing between witches in the Church of Night and their familiars.

"Familiars are goblins who have taken on the shape of animals to better serve their witch masters. There's nothing human about them."
— Zelda Spellman

Personality

Not only is Salem a familiar who will fiercely defend Sabrina until the end, he's also incredibly loyal. Saving her whenever necessary, from all sorts of threats. During this, he has displayed to possess powers beyond even what witches can wield. Making him the perfect guardian for her in the direst of situations.

Like any cat, Salem does like to nap. Especially out in the sun or where its warm. Comfortable and peaceful, when he's not out there, throwing punches. Or claws.

Abilities

Of course, as a familiar, Salem possesses a wide variety of different abilities. These creatures are particularly useful for their masters and will protect them, even if their own lives are at stake. Besides his ability to telepathically communicate with Sabrina, Salem also possesses the ability to shapeshift. His original shape --that of a goblin-- is rather dark and grim. With long limbs and a tail, it makes sense he opts for a pet like appearance to be capable of being around his master more. In his original form, he can also squeeze through just about any opening in an effort to help Sabrina.

As a familiar, Salem possesses super strength and super speed. Making him a strong opponent in a physical fight. This way, he can protect Sabrina at all times. Like any familiar, he is tied to his witch, which means that if she were to die, he would pass away too.

Fun Facts

• There were five cat actors who portrayed Salem in the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina.
• Salem as a character, first appeared in Archie's Mad House #22, which was published in 1962.
• His initial appearance was that of an orange cat, before it being changed to a tuxedo. It wasn't until the 1990s Sabrina the Teenage Witch, that he was turned into an all black cat.
• One can assume there's three different versions of Salem throughout the Archieverse. The one you see in the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina who has no real backstory, the well known Salem Saberhagen and the 2014 version, Samuel.

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Written by Billie Rose
Code by Hugo Prendergast