The Stephen King approved Apple TV series, Hijack, has seen a sharp increase in global viewership just days before the launch of its second season on January 14, 2026. Driven by suspenseful storytelling and Idris Elba‘s lead performance, the series is rapidly climbing Apple TV’s worldwide charts, indicating growing anticipation for the show‘s return.
International Popularity Ahead of New Season
Following a successful debut in the summer of 2023, Hijack has returned to global prominence. According to FlixPatrol, as of January 13, 2025, the thriller holds the third spot internationally on Apple TV. Notably, Hijack claims the number one position in both Grenada and Belize, demonstrating its strong international reach. In the United States, it currently sits at number four, further showcasing its widespread appeal before the release of season two.
Series Premise and Plot Expansion
Created by George Kay and Jim Field Smith, Hijack follows Sam Nelson, portrayed by Idris Elba, a skilled negotiator who is forced to mediate between hijackers and authorities during a midair crisis. The first season concluded with Sam confronting Atterton, one of the hijackers, in a tense encounter that hinted at a larger conspiracy behind the plane hijacking. This unresolved storyline sets the foundation for the drama and tension in season two.
The upcoming season shifts its setting from an airplane to the Berlin underground train system, presenting Sam with new threats and unpredictability. Elba’s character is again positioned as a go-between, now involved in preventing disaster among a new set of hostages while hijackers pursue an even larger objective.
Returning and New Faces
Alongside Idris Elba returning as Sam Nelson, the cast includes Julia Deakin as Claire Paxton. The broader plot is expected to weave in both returning characters—like Sam’s family and the original investigators—as well as introduce new key players affected by the new hostage situation.
Building on Previous Success
The excitement for Hijack’s second season is likely fueled by the show’s extended hiatus—over two years have passed since the premiere of the first season, leaving viewers eager to see how unresolved threads will be addressed. Despite being set primarily in a new location, the series continues to develop the original hijacking‘s larger significance and impact on Sam’s life. Fans can expect greater risk as the eight-episode second season unfolds, with Sam facing new dangers that arise, in part, from the consequences of his actions during the first crisis.
Season 2 Release and Episode Details
Viewers can look forward to a longer journey in the second installment, as this season consists of one more episode than the first, bringing the total to eight. Hijack will continue airing new episodes weekly every Wednesday on Apple TV, starting January 14, 2026.
Anticipated Impact and What’s Next
With strong global ratings, renewed interest, and Stephen King’s endorsement, Hijack stands as a significant title for Apple TV’s thriller catalog. As the narrative transitions to new arenas and higher stakes, anticipation remains high among audiences for how Sam Nelson’s story will unfold, and whether he can outmaneuver the criminals threatening everyone’s safety once again.
