After it was officially confirmed that HBO hit drama Big Little Lies would be returning for a second season (and starring Meryl Streep!), we had questions. A LOT of questions.
And we’re assuming you do, too. So here’s everything we know so far about season two, from the cast to the release date, and all the juicy details in between.
After Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon were secured to both star in and produce season two last year, HBO has just announced that Shailene Woodley, Zoe Kravitz, and Laura Dern are also on board (thank goodness).
Variety reports that season two will see Woodley’s character, Jane Chapman, processing Perry’s death and trying to build a new life for herself and Ziggy. The series will also explore yoga instructor Bonnie Carlson’s past experiences with an abusive father, which season one (and the novel) touch on but don’t delve into fully. Crystal R. Fox (In the Heat of the Night; Driving Miss Daisy) will play Bonnie’s mother, Elizabeth Howard, a new character to be introduced in season two. According to HBO, Elizabeth is “outwardly Zen… but ultimately reveals herself to be controlling and abusive.”
Meryl Streep is also joining the series, in the role of Perry’s formidable mother.
While the cast will (hopefully) remain the same, director Jean-Marc Vallée is reportedly leaving the series to be replaced by Andrea Arnold. The show’s writer David E. Kelley is returning for season 2.
Liane Moriarty, who wrote the original novel Big Little Lies, is also involved with the second season, which is partially based on a story by the Australian author.
HBO said in a statement that season 2 would explore the “malignancy of lies, the durability of friendships, the fragility of marriage and, of course, the vicious ferocity of sound parenting. Relationships will fray, loyalties will erode … the potential for emotional and bodily injury shall loom.”
“This is inspired by the overwhelming response by audiences around the world… What a journey this has been. I’m so grateful to have this opportunity to keep exploring these female characters and make this series with my friends,” Kidman said of season 2.
Witherspoon said that Season 2 “gives us the opportunity to delve deeper into the lives of these intriguing and intricate Monterey families and bring more of their stories back to the audience who embraced and championed them. I’m beyond excited to be working with talented and acclaimed director Andrea Arnold who will be at the helm. Andrea’s unique storytelling style will be a welcome addition to the filmmaking team.”
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