Summary
Lee Sung Jin suggests that there is a potential for Beef to come back as an anthology in season 2. Additionally, he keeps the door open for further stories involving the main characters, Danny and Amy. Despite the limitations imposed by the ongoing writers' strike, Lee genuinely desires to collaborate with the Beef crew in the future.
Netflix and A24's critically acclaimed black comedy, Beef, has garnered thirteen Emmy nominations, including an Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series nod. Lee Sung Jin, the creator of Beef, shares intriguing insights into the future of the show, showcasing exciting potential plans. Starring Steven Yeun and Ali Wong, this dark comedy follows two strangers embroiled in a road-rage incident that escalates into an all-consuming war. Since its April debut, Beef has captivated both critics and audiences, achieving remarkable success on streaming platforms. Alongside the show's impressive Emmy nominations, Wong and Yeun have been recognized for their exceptional performances, while Lee's remarkable writing and directing talents have also been acknowledged.
During an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Lee was asked about the status of Beef season 2. While acknowledging the limitations due to the ongoing writers' strike, Lee expressed the possibility of the series returning as an anthology. Additionally, he emphasized his desire to continue working with the crew of the Netflix show, including the characters Danny, Amy, George, and Paul (Young Mazino). Lee stated that he initially pitched the show as an anthology series with each season featuring new beef and new characters. However, he also expressed his attachment to the world and characters he had created, leaving the door open for various possibilities. Lee expressed the need for a writers room and momentum to determine the direction of the show, expressing hope that the AMPTP would make sensible decisions.
Beef Season 2 Already Has One Potential Star
If Beef were to make a return, either as an anthology or a continuation, there is a potential for Oscar nominee Stanley Tucci to star in it. Previously, Lee mentioned that he envisioned Tucci in the lead role for the Netflix show. In a recent interview with THR, he brings up the casting possibility again, hinting that he is still open to it.
When considering whether the story of Danny and Amy should continue, the answer that may be tempting is that it shouldn't. What sets Beef apart is its smart storytelling approach, which challenges the assumptions that its simple premise may suggest. Instead of the expected hilarious quest for revenge after a road-rage encounter, and the constant face-offs between Danny and Amy in each episode, Beef keeps its two main characters separate and delves into the reasons behind their extreme behavior. While there is still plenty of pettiness, the bleak comedy explores other interests as well.
The season 1 finale of Beef culminates in a memorable climax, leaving little room for further story development. While the anthology approach has proven successful in captivating dramas like The White Lotus, if there is a compelling justification for Danny and Amy's return, it would be exciting to see Lee delve into it.