Good Omens Season 2: Michael Sheen & David Tennant's Phenomenal Chemistry Takes Center Stage

Summary

Delving into Aziraphale and Crowley's prior experiences, the minisodes in season 2 unveil their complex backstory, bringing greater depth to their connection.

Good Omens celebrates the diversity of its characters, featuring meaningful LGBTQ+ representation and delivering an invigorating and impactful storyline. Note: The aforementioned piece was written amidst the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, acknowledging that the show under discussion owes its existence to the labor of the striking writers and actors.

Prime Video's adaptation of Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman's novel Good Omens skyrocketed to online fame in 2019. The quirky tale of a demon and an angel, determined to prevent the apocalypse, captivated audiences. The initial six episodes provided a self-contained narrative, tying up loose ends. Consequently, the unexpected announcement of a second season caught many, including myself, off guard. The apprehension surrounding such revivals is justified, considering the tendency to overextend storylines. However, Good Omens season 2 dispels doubts through a captivating new mystery and the return of the incomparable chemistry between David Tennant and Michael Sheen.

At the conclusion of season 1, Aziraphale (Sheen) and Crowley (Tennant) successfully averted Armageddon. Both have since settled into a peaceful life, as Heaven and Hell have loosened their grip. However, their tranquility is disrupted when the Supreme Archangel Gabriel (Jon Hamm) unexpectedly arrives at Aziraphale's doorstep. Gabriel, stripped of his memories and clothing, poses a new threat. As Heaven and Hell race to locate Gabriel, Aziraphale and Crowley reluctantly join forces once more to protect him and prevent another catastrophic event that could bring about the end of the world.

Good Omens season 2 features Jon Hamm and Michael Sheen.

Gaiman returns as a co-writer for the second season, along with newcomer John Finnemore. He clarifies that the new episodes are not based on the book sequel that was never written. Despite this, the series maintains its distinctive voice, despite the absence of Frances McDormand as the season 1 narrator. The mystery of Gabriel's missing memories and the circumstances that brought him to Aziraphale drive the narrative forward. However, the middle episodes do slow down with "minisodes" that delve into Aziraphale and Crowley's past. These minisodes play an important role in establishing their complex history and developing their relationship. While the answers to the intriguing Gabriel plot take longer to unfold, the eventual resolution is both satisfying and unexpected.

Just as with season 1, Good Omens season 2 takes a clever approach to portraying Heaven and Hell and their inhabitants. The season begins with a flashback to Crowley's time as an angel, setting the stage for the thought-provoking theological concepts that Good Omens loves to explore. Once again, Gaiman (along with the excellent addition of Finnemore) fearlessly delves into the complexities and uncertainties surrounding God and Heaven, particularly in an episode that retells the story of Job from the Bible.

One of the strengths of Good Omens season 2 lies in its uniformly impressive cast, with familiar faces taking on new roles. Maggie Service and Nina Sosanya have expanded roles as the couple Maggie and Nina, respectively, while Miranda Richardson embraces her dark side as Crowley's replacement, the demon leader Shax, who spearheads Hell's mission on Earth. Special recognition should be given to Hamm, whose comedic talents shine as the amnesiac angel Gabriel, and newcomer Quelin Sepulveda, who brings a delightful innocence and naivety to the character of the angel Muriel. Both Hamm and Sepulveda deliver humor and heartfelt moments, particularly in the season's final episode.

David Tennant and Michael Sheen in Good Omens season 2

Good Omens season 2 serves as a remarkable platform for Sheen and Tennant, showcasing their unparalleled chemistry. Both actors have the chance to delve into new dimensions of their characters, often revolving around matters of faith. Witnessing the alliance between Aziraphale and Crowley against the opposing forces of Heaven and Hell is immensely satisfying, and Sheen and Tennant fully embrace their eccentric roles. Season 2 of Good Omens can be viewed as a profound examination of both characters, leading them to an unexpectedly captivating place. While a second season may seem unnecessary, the conclusion insists on a season 3, confirming that there is indeed more to the story. Gaiman and Finnemore have laid the foundation for another equally enjoyable adventure, which hopefully receives confirmation sooner rather than later.

Good Omens season 2 maintains the qualities that made the first season so appealing, particularly through its two main characters. Additionally, at a time when LGBTQ+ rights are under threat, it is refreshing to have a show that openly embraces the queerness of its characters. This is achieved through their use of they/them pronouns and by highlighting the blossoming romance between two women. It is a powerful representation. While Good Omens' absurdity may not resonate with everyone, if you found something to love in season 1, then season 2 will prove to be rewarding. Gaiman and Finnemore have demonstrated that, with an angel, a demon, and a vast universe at their disposal, the potential for storytelling is truly boundless.

All six episodes of Good Omens season 2 release Friday, July 28 on Prime Video.