Netflix has unveiled the cast lineup for the highly anticipated second season of the Addams Family spinoff series, “Wednesday,” with Jenna Ortega leading the ensemble. The announcement signals some significant changes, as three Season 1 regulars — Percy Hynes White, Jamie McShane, and Naomi J Ogawa — will not return in the same capacity for the upcoming season.
McShane, known for his portrayal of Sheriff Donovan Galpin, will return as a guest star, likely to conclude his character’s storyline following the shocking events of the Season 1 finale. The revelation that his son Tyler (played by Hunter Doohan) was the Hyde monster left Sheriff Galpin reeling, and fans have speculated about his fate in Season 2.
With McShane’s reduced role, the duties of law enforcement in the series may shift to his deputy, Ritchie Santiago, portrayed by Luyanda Unati Lewis-Nyawo, who is promoted to series regular status for the new season.
Meanwhile, White’s character, Xavier Thorpe, a psychic student at Nevermore, played a significant role in Season 1, particularly as a romantic interest for Wednesday. Despite rumors of his character’s potential departure, White’s option had been extended, indicating a continued presence. However, recent developments suggest otherwise, possibly stemming from past controversies.
White-faced allegations of sexual assault, which he vehemently denied in a statement to fans. Despite the extension of his option, it appears his character’s journey might be coming to an end.
As for Ogawa, her character, Yoko Tanaka, a vampire student, had a minimal role in Season 1 with diminishing screen time. Consequently, her absence in Season 2 is understandable as her character did not have a significant storyline.
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The Season 2 cast includes returning regulars Ortega, Emma Myers, Joy Sunday, Doohan, Victor Dorobantu, Moosa Mostafa, and Georgie Farmer. Joining them are new series regulars such as Steve Buscemi, Billie Piper, Evie Templeton, Owen Painter, and Noah Taylor. Additionally, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Luis Guzmán, Isaac Ordonez, and Lewis-Nyawo have been promoted from recurring or guest roles.
Notable guest stars for Season 2 include Joanna Lumley, Thandiwe Newton, Frances O’Connor, Haley Joel Osment, Heather Matarazzo, and Joonas Suotamo. Fred Armisen is set to reprise his role as Uncle Fester, with Christopher Lloyd, who portrayed Fester in the original movies, making a guest appearance.
Production for the new season has commenced in Ireland, with a scheduled premiere for 2025. The first teaser for Season 2, titled “Here We Woe Again,” hints at more macabre adventures to come, written by creators/executive producers Miles Millar and Al Gough and directed by series director/executive producer Tim Burton.
With Ortega taking on a producer role for Season 2, there’s an indication of a shift towards a stronger emphasis on horror rather than teen romance. This aligns with fan expectations for a darker tone, promising more thrills and chills in the upcoming episodes.
As anticipation builds for the return of “Wednesday,” fans eagerly await the continuation of the Addams Family legacy with its unique blend of dark humor and eerie storytelling. With a talented cast and creative team behind the scenes, Season 2 promises to deliver another dose of delightful frights and spooky delights for audiences worldwide.