Untamed Season 2: A Shift to the Hawaiian Volcanoes and What It Means for the Series
Netflix’s crime drama, Untamed, captivated audiences in 2025, quickly becoming a global hit. The success led to a swift renewal for a second season, and now, fans are eagerly anticipating its arrival. But this isn’t just a continuation of the same story; Untamed is relocating – trading the familiar landscapes of Yosemite National Park for the dramatic terrain of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
From Yosemite to Volcanoes: A Bold Creative Move
The shift in location is more than just a change of scenery. According to co-showrunners Mark L. Smith and Elle Smith, the move allows them to “explore the pristine landscapes and cultural identity of a very different national park, and find Turner in a new state of mind, outside the comfort of Yosemite.” This suggests a deliberate effort to challenge the protagonist, Agent Kyle Turner (Eric Bana), and introduce new layers of complexity to the narrative.
Filming began on February 6, 2026, in Hawai‘i, with the story centering around a mysterious death within the park. The presence of active volcanoes – Kīlauea and Mauna Loa – adds a unique and unpredictable element to the investigation, promising a thrilling and visually stunning season.
Returning and New Faces in Season 2
As of now, Netflix has confirmed the return of three cast members: Eric Bana as Agent Kyle Turner, Shea Whigham as Ray Burkart, and Kelly Hu as Awapuhi. The fate of other season one favorites, such as Sam Neill and Wilson Bethel, remains uncertain, given their characters’ deaths in the previous season. However, the possibility of flashbacks or Turner grappling with memories of these characters hasn’t been ruled out.
The series features a supporting cast including Rosemarie DeWitt, Lily Santiago, William Smillie, Raoul Max Trujillo, Josh Randall, and Ezra Franky, though their return has not been officially confirmed.
What to Expect from the New Storyline
Season one concluded with Kyle Turner solving the case of Lucy Cook and confronting his grief over the loss of his son. Season two promises a fresh mystery, with Turner investigating a new death in Hawai‘i. The series will likely continue to explore themes of loss, trauma, and the complexities of human nature, all set against the backdrop of a challenging and unforgiving environment.
The introduction of local tensions and cultural dynamics in Hawai‘i suggests a deeper exploration of the relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve. This could add a new dimension to the show’s social commentary.
The Production Behind the Scenes
Untamed boasts a strong creative team, with Mark L. Smith and Elle Smith serving as creators and showrunners. Thomas Bezucha, Nick Murphy, and Neasa Hardiman are among the directors, and Jeff Russo is responsible for the music. The series is a collaboration between Warner Bros. Television, Escape Artists, John Wells Productions, and Bee Holder Productions.
Where to Watch Untamed
Season one of Untamed is currently available on Netflix. Season two will also be exclusively available on Netflix upon its release, requiring a paid subscription.
Untamed: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will Untamed Season 2 be released?
A: A release date has not yet been announced by Netflix.
Q: Will Sam Neill be in Season 2?
A: It is unlikely, as his character died in Season 1, though flashbacks are possible.
Q: Where is Season 2 being filmed?
A: Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
Q: What is Untamed about?
A: The series follows a federal agent investigating a suspicious death in a national park, uncovering secrets and confronting personal demons.
Q: Is there a trailer for Season 2?
A: Not yet, but one is expected to be released approximately 15-20 days before the season premiere.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Netflix’s official social media channels and the Untamed page for the latest updates and announcements regarding the release date and trailer.
What are your expectations for Season 2 of Untamed? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
