Netflix's latest series, Wednesday, takes an intriguing twist as it introduces viewers to a fresh incarnation of the beloved character, Wednesday Addams. With its premiere in November 2022, the show delves into the journey of this iconic character, portrayed by Jenna Ortega, as she navigates her way through mastering her psychic abilities at Nevermore Academy. However, her path is not without obstacles, as a mysterious monster unleashes a killing spree, adding an extra layer of suspense to Wednesday's story.
Christina Ricci caused a stir among fans when she announced her participation in the show prior to its premiere. The actress, who gained fame from her roles in the '90s movies The Addams Family and Addams Family Values, expressed her enthusiasm for reuniting with Tim Burton, the director and executive producer of the show. In an exclusive interview with We in October 2022, Ricci praised her co-star Jenna, describing her as incredible and impressive in her role, while also expressing her delight in collaborating with her. Overall, Ricci described the experience as truly delightful.
Ricci's character Marilyn Thornhill, who was initially introduced in the first season, was later unveiled to be Laurel Gates. After the tragic death of her entire family, who had previously tried to eliminate the outcasts, the vengeful teacher set her sights on seeking revenge against Nevermore Academy. When discussing their approach to the series, creators Miles Millar and Alfred Gough emphasized their focus on long-term planning and envisioning multiple seasons.
The writing duo revealed that in a potential second season, there would be a greater emphasis on Wednesday's character development.
"The show revolves around a protagonist who perceives the world in a simplistic manner, but eventually realizes that there are complexities and nuances to be explored," Gough shared with TVLine during the same period. "Similar to any relationship or friendship, external influences can complicate matters, and it is through these challenges that the character learns to navigate the highs and lows of companionship." Discover below all the information we have gathered about the possible second season of Wednesday.
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Everything to Know About Wednesday's Season 2 on Netflix: From Upcoming Story Lines to Returning Cast Members
Taking a twisted turn. Netflix's Wednesday introduced viewers to a new version of Wednesday Addams — and her story is only getting started.
The series debuted in November 2022 and follows the journey of the iconic character (Jenna Ortega) as she navigates her psychic abilities at Nevermore Academy, all while confronting a string of murders committed by a enigmatic creature.
Prior to the show's premiere, fans were pleasantly surprised by Christina Ricci's announcement of her participation in the series. Ricci gained fame for her roles in the '90s films The Addams Family and Addams Family Values.
"I was filled with anticipation to collaborate with Tim [Burton] once more," shared the Yellowjackets star in an exclusive interview with We in October 2022, referring to the director and executive producer of the show. "Jenna is truly extraordinary and delivers an exceptional performance in this role. Working with her was an absolute delight. It was a truly wonderful experience."
In the course of the initial season, it was unveiled that Ricci's character, Marilyn Thornhill, was in reality Laurel Gates. The teacher made the decision to avenge Nevermore Academy after her entire family tragically perished during their own attempts to dismantle the outcasts.
Creators Miles Millar and Alfred Gough discussed their approach to planning the series, emphasizing their focus on the future. They explained that when they develop a show, they always consider multiple seasons and aim to map out three or four seasons' worth of potential storylines for the characters. They acknowledged the unexpected but appreciated support from both new and existing fans, expressing their anticipation for the show's success. While they acknowledge that the direction of the storylines may evolve and change, they have a solid vision for what they want to explore in future seasons.
"The focus of a potential second season would be on the development of Wednesday's character," stated the writing duo. They further explained, "The series revolves around a young girl who perceives the world in simplistic terms, but gradually discovers the complexities and nuances within it." Gough, in an interview with TVLine, added, "Similar to any relationship or friendship, external factors can complicate things. It won't be a seamless journey for her; she will face challenges and learn to navigate the highs and lows of friendship."
Scroll down for everything we know about Wednesday's potential second season:
Credit: Vlad Cioplea/Netflix © 2022
Is 'Wednesday' Renewed for Season 2?
Before the announcement of its renewal, Wednesday surpassed Netflix's streaming record with a staggering 341.2 million hours of viewing. This remarkable feat outshined Stranger Things, the previous record-holder, which had accumulated 335 million hours during the first week of its fourth season.
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Who Is Returning to 'Wednesday'?
It is likely that Ortega, Emma Myers, Percy Hynes White, Joy Sunday, Georgie Farmer, and Moosa Mostafa will make a comeback to Nevermore Academy. Additionally, there is a possibility that Hunter Doohan, Ricci, and Jamie McShane may also return following the events of the season 1 finale.
In the future, fans can anticipate the emergence of Thing, a beloved character brought to life by Victor Dorobantu. Additionally, Wednesday's family, portrayed by Catherine Zeta-Jones, Luis Guzmán, Isaac Ordonez, and Fred Armisen, is set to play a more prominent role.
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Where Did the Story Leave Off?
In the thrilling season 1 finale, Wednesday enlisted the aid of her loyal companions to defeat Joseph Crackstone (played by William Houston), Laurel (portrayed by Ricci), and Tyler (played by Doohan). However, tragedy struck as Principal Weems (portrayed by Gwendoline Christie) lost her life in the midst of the fierce battle. As a result, Nevermore Academy was forced to shut down for the remainder of the semester.
On her way home, Wednesday received threats from an unknown stalker and hinted at the drama still to come.
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Could Christina Ricci's Character Return?
After Laurel's attempt to eradicate outcasts, the outcome was far from what she had anticipated. Unexpectedly, the antagonist found herself under attack by a swarm of bees, and it appeared that Wednesday had successfully put an end to her.
Since the show premiered, various members of the cast have subtly suggested that Ricci might make appearances in forthcoming seasons.
"I am not at liberty to disclose that information. However, I can say that I am ready and willing to take on any role. Playing a villain is always an enjoyable experience," Ricci playfully hinted during her interview with Entertainment Tonight in March 2023.
Credit: Vlad Cioplea/Netflix © 2022
What Would the 'Wednesday' Cast Like to See Explored in Season 2?
Christie hinted in November 2022 that her character may make a return even after her onscreen demise. The Star Wars actress pointed out, "We haven't witnessed her being laid to rest, have we? I believe Larissa Weems wouldn't easily succumb to something as ordinary as death and would be unwilling to be controlled by it."
Gough and Millar initially envisioned the show to span three or four seasons.
Credit: Netflix
Will Wednesday's Family Continue to Appear?
In November 2022, Gough and Millar expressed their intentions to further develop the involvement of Wednesday's family in the series, emphasizing the exceptional performances delivered by the talented actors portraying these characters.
Millar expressed, "In my opinion, Catherine embodies the iconic character of Morticia. The dynamic between Wednesday and Morticia is crucial to the show, and the concept of Wednesday striving to find her own identity apart from the family holds immense significance."
During Netflix's TUDUM event in São Paulo, Brazil, in June 2023, the cast confirmed that season 2 will introduce a new member to the Addams family. "However, we are unaware of their identity!" Hunter Doohan playfully hinted in the video, expressing his desire to see the inclusion of Grandmama.
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“I would prefer if she had a darker side,” expressed the former Disney Channel star during an interview with Entertainment Tonight in December 2022, regarding her aspirations for Wednesday in the second season. “I envision her delving deeper into the complexities of her character and taking more risks, because although there are numerous mentions of her saving the school and accomplishing various tasks, I believe her primary motivation when it comes to the monster is driven by competitiveness. It's like, 'How is this guy able to do this?'"
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Will Jenna Ortega Play a Larger Role Behind the Scenes in Season 2?
During a roundtable interview with The Hollywood Reporter in June 2023, Ortega confirmed that she is a producer on season 2.