“‘Bad Sisters’ Season 2 Analysis: Is It Still Compelling Once the Central Mystery Is Unraveled?”


**Where Does *Bad Sisters* Head After Unraveling Its Central Mystery?**

One of the most pressing inquiries as we awaited *Bad Sisters* Season 2 was: what direction does a show take after it has resolved its primary enigma? Sharon Horgan’s 2022 sensation, an enthralling whodunit centering on a group of sisters plotting to eliminate their abusive brother-in-law, concluded its inaugural season with a gratifying resolution. So, what’s next?

Season 2 dives right into breaking apart the neat conclusion of the first season. At first, the new trajectory feels equally intense and captivating. However, the pace stumbles midway, causing the narrative to become inconsistent before it finds its balance again in the concluding episodes.

### What’s *Bad Sisters* Season 2 About?

We reconnect with the Garvey sisters—Eva (Sharon Horgan), Grace (Anne-Marie Duff), Bibi (Sarah Greene), Becka (Eve Hewson), and Ursula (Eva Birthistle)—in what appears to be a brighter phase of their lives. Grace is now wedded to a new partner, Ian (Owen McDonnell), and the recollection of her abusive spouse, John Paul (Claes Bang), is fading away. Season 1 concluded the mystery of John Paul’s demise in an orderly fashion, and the family seems to be flourishing in his absence. But, as anticipated, tranquility is short-lived.

The initial indication of trouble arises from their anxious neighbor Roger (Michael Smiley), who returns alongside his intrusive sister Angelica (Fiona Shaw). Roger poses a threat to reveal what he knows concerning John Paul’s death, while Angelica’s doubts deepen. At the same time, new detective Una Houlihan (Thaddea Graham) collaborates with Season 1’s investigator Fergal Loftus (Barry Ward) to reopen the case. These developments swiftly disrupt Grace’s newfound joy and catapult the sisters back into crisis mode.

### Does *Bad Sisters* Season 2 Meet the Standards of Its Predecessor?

Without revealing too much, Season 2 unfolds a significant twist early on that alters the show’s dynamics. It’s a daring narrative decision that pays off—at least for some time.

There are numerous elements to appreciate about *Bad Sisters* that resonate into Season 2. The characters continue to be captivating, the mix of drama and dark comedy remains effective, and the writing is incisive. The addition of new characters injects fresh tensions into the narrative, and there are enough surprises to keep viewers on their toes. If this were an independent series, it would stand as a commendable achievement.

But it’s not an independent series—it’s a sequel. What rendered Season 1 so enthralling wasn’t solely the characters and dialogue, but the core mystery: how did John Paul die, and who was accountable? That mystery fueled the entire season. In contrast, Season 2 fails to present a similarly gripping hook. Although there are still unresolved questions, they lack the same significance and urgency.

### Final Thoughts

*Bad Sisters* Season 2 isn’t poor by any stretch. Following a slow middle act, the narrative regains momentum towards the conclusion. Nevertheless, when weighed against the brilliance of its first season—a comparison that’s unavoidable—it doesn’t quite measure up. Despite its attempts to venture into new realms, it simply cannot replicate the allure of the original.

*Bad Sisters* Season 2 will be available for streaming on Apple TV+ starting Nov. 13.