Why Netflix Reversed Plans and Renewed Steve Carell’s The Four Seasons for Season 2

Netflix has surprised fans by renewing Steve Carell’s The Four Seasons for a second season, despite originally planning it as a limited series. This decision reflects the strong connection viewers felt with the show’s honest portrayal of friendship and loss, which premiered in May 2025.

The Four Seasons initially aired as an eight-episode limited run, centered around the aftermath of Nick’s death, the character played by Steve Carell. The series gained widespread acclaim for its heartfelt exploration of midlife challenges and the bonds that hold friends together. With a total of 39 million hours watched in the first half of 2025, Netflix recognized the lasting appeal and emotional impact of the show, prompting the renewal.

The Factors Behind Extending The Four Seasons Beyond Its Original Scope

The Four Seasons was created by Tina Fey, Lang Fisher, and Tracey Wigfield, drawing inspiration from the 1981 film of the same name by Alan Alda, who also appeared in a guest role on the Netflix series. Originally, the story was designed to conclude after one season, framing a complete narrative arc focused on grief and healing. However, the genuine response from audiences and the rich potential within the characters motivated Netflix to reconsider.

Co-creator Lang Fisher shared insight into the decision in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, stating:

Steve Carell
Image of: Steve Carell

“I feel like we saw it both ways. It could be a great limited series, but we have ideas if it goes on. It’s a question of whether we can get the whole cast back and we want to see what these guys would do next. I don’t think we would do it ever as an anthology. I think you want to see these particular characters.”

Fisher emphasized the importance of maintaining the same ensemble to continue the story authentically, highlighting their commitment to these specific characters rather than altering the format into an anthology.

Tina Fey also expressed optimism about the series’ future possibilities, adding:

“And I think we were encouraged to stay open to it, as well. It is so human in its scale, and I think humans are going to be around for… at least 15 more years.”

Fey’s comment reflects a hopeful outlook on exploring the human stories at the core of the show beyond its initial scope.

The closing events of Season 1, including Nick’s death, served as a powerful emotional turning point, providing a foundation for further storytelling about grief, friendship, and personal growth. While Netflix has not yet announced specifics regarding the returning cast, storyline direction, or production schedule for Season 2, anticipation is building among fans eager to see what lies ahead.

Colman Domingo’s Emmy Nomination Highlights the Show’s Critical Success

The Four Seasons also gained industry recognition during the recent 2025 Primetime Emmy Awards, with actor Colman Domingo receiving the show’s sole nomination. Domingo was recognized in the Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series category for his role as Danny, standing out among nominees that included Ike Barinholtz, Jeff Hiller, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Bowen Yang, Harrison Ford, and Michael Urie.

Following the announcement, Domingo expressed gratitude and delight over the nomination, saying:

“I knew it was time to have a little fun and flex my comedy muscles. Who knew it would be with the heavyweights such as Tina Fey, Steve Carell, Kerri Kenney-Silver, Will Forte and Marco Calvani? This nomination is for all of us, because every comedian can tell you, you can’t be funny alone. You need some wonderful people to play off of. And I am tremendously blessed.”

This response highlights not only his pride in the acknowledgment but also the collaborative spirit among the cast that contributed to the show’s success.

The Four Seasons’ acclaim at the awards extends Netflix’s reputation for producing nuanced, character-driven comedy and drama, complementing its larger roster of hit series such as Adolescence and Black Mirror, which also earned numerous nominations.

What the Renewal Means for Fans and the Future of the Series

By renewing The Four Seasons for a second season, Netflix is poised to explore themes of grief, resilience, and evolving friendships with the same depth and sincerity that made the first season resonate. The renewal offers an opportunity to follow the characters’ journeys as they navigate life’s challenges beyond loss, deepening the show’s emotional impact.

With the creators eager to continue the story if the original ensemble returns, viewers can expect a continuation that honors the show’s human scale and intimate storytelling. Although details on the new season’s release date and plot are pending, the commitment to this story underlines Netflix’s investment in meaningful, heartfelt narratives.

The Four Seasons Season 1 remains available for streaming on Netflix, while fans await further announcements as production on Season 2 begins.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Is Steve Carell a nice guy in real life?

A. People often describe Carell as the nicest and most down-to-earth person in Hollywood. This view is shared by both his coworkers and the media.

Q. What is Steve Carell’s religion?

A. Carell grew up in a Roman Catholic family. He went to Nashoba Brooks School, The Fenn School, and Middlesex School. In high school, he played ice hockey and lacrosse.

Q. Is Steve Carell really a nice guy?

A. At the same time, Steve Carell is often called the “king of nice.” This label is both a compliment and a slight. He is approaching 60 in August, firmly in his “silver-fox” years. He has shown his skills in both serious and funny acting roles.

Q. Did Steve Carell actually cry in The Office?

A. While Carell described the farewell as “emotional,” he told Fischer and Kinsey on the podcast that his tears were actually happy ones. He felt prepared to leave and wasn’t upset about it. Carell believed it was the right moment for other characters to take the lead and for new storylines to be explored.