(VIDEO) 'The Four Seasons' Season 2 Earns Strong Reviews as Tina Fey's Midlife Comedy Deepens Resonance

NEW YORK — Netflix's "The Four Seasons" Season 2 has garnered largely positive reviews from critics, who praise its sharper blend of humor and poignancy following the dramatic loss of a central character, positioning the Tina Fey-led series as a refined and more emotionally layered continuation of its 2025 debut.

The eight-episode season, which premiered on May 28, 2026, follows the group of long-time friends as they navigate new realities after the death of Nick, played by Steve Carell in Season 1. Critics note that the absence of Carell's character has liberated the show, allowing deeper exploration of grief, growth and shifting friendships amid picturesque seasonal getaways.

On Rotten Tomatoes, Season 2 holds an 86% "Fresh" rating based on early critic reviews, improving upon the first season's score. Metacritic assigned it a score of 77 out of 100, indicating generally favorable reviews. Many reviewers describe the new season as funnier, more focused and emotionally richer than its predecessor.

Critical Acclaim for Improved Tone and Performances

RogerEbert.com's Christina Escobar highlighted the series' growth, writing that Season 2 makes for a more entertaining experience largely because it has figured out how to manage its comedically bittersweet tone. She noted that "some things really do get better with age," praising the chemistry among the cast including Fey, Colman Domingo and Kerri Kenney-Silver.

The Guardian's Chitra Ramaswamy was even more enthusiastic, calling Season 2 "even more fantastic than the first" and comparing its sharp writing favorably to Fey's landmark series "30 Rock." She lauded the show's poignant yet hilarious script and exquisite production values reminiscent of Nancy Meyers films.

USA Today's Kelly Lawler gave the season three stars out of four, noting that the series feels "liberated" by the absence of Carell's character. Lawler wrote that Season 2 is "fresher, faster, brighter and more complex" than the first, while still delivering the awkward conflicts that define the show.

Variety described the season as "sadder and more subdued" but praised the strong ensemble performances and beautiful locations, including the Italian Alps. IndieWire offered a more mixed assessment, calling the season "frustratingly mediocre" at times but acknowledging solid chemistry and occasional poignant moments.

Plot and Character Development

Season 2 picks up after the shocking ending of Season 1, with the friend group processing Nick's death while continuing their tradition of seasonal vacations. New dynamics emerge as characters confront personal growth, new relationships and the realities of middle age. Kerri Kenney-Silver's performance as Anne has drawn particular praise, with several critics calling her the standout of the season.

The show maintains its signature mix of witty dialogue, beautiful travel backdrops and honest portrayals of midlife challenges. Reviewers note that while the series has become less zany, it has gained emotional depth without losing its comedic edge.

Colman Domingo's character receives expanded focus, providing moments of wisdom and levity as the group navigates grief and change. The chemistry among the core cast remains a highlight, with reviewers noting that the ensemble feels even more cohesive in the second season.

Production and Creative Team

Tina Fey serves as co-creator, executive producer and star alongside Tracey Wigfield and Lang Fisher. The creative team has refined the tone based on feedback from the first season, resulting in tighter storytelling and more satisfying character arcs.

The production continues to feature stunning locations and high production values, enhancing the escapist appeal while grounding the narrative in relatable emotional experiences. The Vivaldi-inspired soundtrack and seasonal structure remain intact, providing a familiar framework for the new stories.

Audience and Cultural Reception

Early audience reactions have been mixed but generally positive, with many viewers appreciating the show's willingness to tackle heavier themes while maintaining humor. Social media discussions highlight the strong performances and beautiful cinematography, though some fans of the more comedic first season expressed a desire for additional levity.

The series continues to spark conversations about friendship, aging and resilience. Its portrayal of middle-aged characters navigating loss and change has resonated with audiences seeking thoughtful adult comedies in the streaming landscape.

Industry Context and Netflix Strategy

"The Four Seasons" represents Netflix's continued investment in star-driven ensemble comedies aimed at broader audiences. The show's performance in Season 2 could influence future decisions regarding similar prestige comedies on the platform.

Fey's involvement brings significant star power and creative credibility, helping the series stand out in a crowded streaming market. The decision to address the major character loss from Season 1 head-on has been widely praised as a bold narrative choice that pays dividends in the new episodes.

As more reviews and audience scores emerge, "The Four Seasons" Season 2 appears positioned for solid success. Its blend of humor, heart and vacation escapism offers an appealing option for viewers seeking both entertainment and emotional substance.

The positive critical reception suggests that Fey and her collaborators have successfully evolved the series while staying true to its core appeal. For fans of smart, character-driven comedies, Season 2 delivers a refined and rewarding follow-up that builds meaningfully on the foundation established in the first season.

Whether the show will continue beyond Season 2 remains to be seen, but early indications point to a creative resurgence that has left critics and many viewers eager for more time with these beloved characters.