Review of Season 2 of Paradise: Sterling K. Hulu's expansive post-apocalyptic revival is led by Brown.

On February 23, 2026, the highly anticipated second season of the popular Hulu show Paradise brought viewers back into its post-apocalyptic world and expanded its narrative in ways that have garnered praise and criticism from viewers and critics alike. The series starring Sterling K. has a broader scope, new characters, and a shift in tone. Brown's performance as Xavier Collins, a Secret Service agent, continues to investigate survival, human connection, and the emotional cost of disaster. Season 2 debuted with "three episodes available immediately" on Hulu and Disney+. It will continue with weekly episodes through an eight-episode arc, similar to how the first season was structured.

The story continues where Season 1 left off, following Xavier as he "adventures above ground to search for his possibly still-alive wife, Teri" and dealing with rising tensions among survivors still living in the underground bunker known as "Paradise." The contrast between the enclosed, claustrophobic bunker setting of Season 1 and the "vast, unpredictable world above ground" is one of the biggest changes this season. Dan Fogelman, the series' creator, described the second season as a pivotal "middle" part of the show's planned three-season arc, expanding not only the show's physical environment but also its themes.

Characters deal with the psychological toll of prolonged isolation and societal collapse, encounter new survivors, and unexpected threats. Shailene Woodley in the role of Annie, a tough survivor who spent years hiding in a rebuilt Graceland mansion, and Thomas Doherty in the role of Link, a resourceful but mysterious outsider, are two recent additions to the cast. Their introductions bring additional emotional stakes as Xavier’s mission for reunion and resolution intersects with others’ struggles in a world transformed by catastrophe.

Split reactions have been received to Season 2. Some critics applaud its ambitious storytelling and emotional depth, noting that the series pushes past the confines of typical apocalyptic dramas by focusing on character development as much as world-building. On Rotten Tomatoes, early reviews highlighted the show’s willingness to take risks, praise the performances — particularly by Brown and Nicole Brydon Bloom — and lauded the season’s capacity to surprise and engage viewers with unpredictable twists.

However, other critics have not been as impressed, describing the second season as "disjointed" and "messy." Critics such as Hollywood Reporter’s Angie Han argue that while Paradise expands its world, the plot often prioritizes emotional melodrama over cohesive pacing and tightly knit storytelling. An excessive reliance on unanswered questions and expanding mysteries that, according to some critics, dilute the narrative focus rather than strengthen it are highlighted by comparisons to other serialized dramas, including references to the sprawling narrative choices of Lost.

New characters are also criticized by viewers and critics for not being given enough screen time and having arcs that do not always contribute significantly to the main plot. For instance, Annie, played by Shailene Woodley, has been praised for being both intriguing and compelling, but she has not always fit in seamlessly with the mystery that is developing throughout the season. However, despite these critics' skepticism, the season continues to be watchable due to the strong performances from the cast. The central themes of "hope," "trust," and "survival" in the face of overwhelming adversity continue to be explored in "Paradise." The emotional center of the season is still Xavier's journey, where he is torn between his inherent skepticism as a former Secret Service agent and his persistent, almost desperate hope of being reunited with his wife.

Brown has made it clear in interviews that these two truths are what make up his character: he doesn't trust a hostile world and is determined to connect with others and find love and purpose even in bad situations. In a similar vein, the show's examination of relationships demonstrates how community, connection, and vulnerability become intertwined with survival, whether it be between survivors forming tenuous alliances or confronting their own pasts. These thematic choices touch on real-world concerns regarding crisis resilience, cooperation, and human connection beyond the fictional paradise of "Paradise."

The striking visuals in "Paradise" Season 2 contrast the cramped interior of the bunker with the expansive and frequently desolate landscapes above ground, making it stand out. The haunting score, cinematography, and sound design all work together to create a world that feels both richly imagined and unpredictable and dangerous. With Sterling K, performances remain a highlight. Brown gave a nuanced performance as a strong but emotionally vulnerable leader father, and Julianne Nicholson's Sinatra added compelling tension to the story. Even when the plot goes in different directions, the ensemble cast as a whole adds depth to the interactions between characters.

The series' mixed reception is reflected in viewer communities, particularly online discussion forums. Some fans praise the show's bold narrative choices and emotional weight, while others question some storytelling choices from Season 1 Many fans hope that Season 2's expanded vision will pay off in subsequent episodes because they remain invested in the larger trilogy arc.

Individual expectations will likely determine whether "Paradise" is regarded as a successful continuation or a flawed sophomore effort. The series' ambition, performances, and thematic resonance continue to be a testament to its strong presence in the streaming drama landscape despite critics' disagreements. Paradise Season 2 still provides a compelling, if flawed, journey for fans of serialized thrillers that combine high stakes and complex characters.