The second season of Netflix’s hit series “Wednesday” launches with a captivating first episode titled “Here We Woe Again,” reuniting viewers with the quirky world of Nevermore Academy and its standout student, Wednesday Addams.

Jenna Ortega reprises her role as the sharp-witted Wednesday Addams, the iconic character from the Addams Family franchise, in a premiere that blends familiar charm with intriguing new developments. Directed by Tim Burton and produced by the team behind the first season’s massive success, the episode aired on August 6, 2025, drawing in over 50 million global streams in its first week, according to Netflix metrics. This return marks a pivotal moment for the series, which became a cultural phenomenon after its 2022 debut, spawning memes, merchandise, and even influencing Halloween trends worldwide.

The episode picks up after a summer hiatus, with Wednesday reluctantly stepping back into the spotlight at Nevermore, the elite boarding school for outcasts with unique abilities. No longer just an enigmatic newcomer, she finds herself thrust into the role of campus celebrity following her pivotal contributions to the school’s stability in the previous season. Ortega captures this shift masterfully, her deadpan expressions and precise delivery underscoring Wednesday’s discomfort with attention while hinting at deeper personal challenges ahead.

As the story unfolds, viewers are reintroduced to the sprawling grounds of Nevermore, a gothic yet vibrant institution that serves as a haven for students with supernatural traits. The academy buzzes with energy as the new academic year begins, complete with orientation events and freshman arrivals. Wednesday navigates these changes with her signature detachment, but subtle cues reveal an evolution in her abilities—glimpses of foresight that add layers to her character. Ortega’s performance here is particularly noteworthy; she conveys quiet intensity through minimalistic gestures, making Wednesday’s internal world feel both distant and profoundly relatable. Critics have praised this nuance, noting how it builds on the actress’s breakout turn that earned her widespread acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

A key highlight is the integration of Wednesday’s family into the school environment. Her younger brother, Pugsley Addams, played by newcomer Isaac Ordonez, makes his debut as a Nevermore student. Pugsley’s arrival injects fresh energy, showcasing his own budding talents that echo the Addams family’s eccentric legacy. Ordonez brings a wide-eyed curiosity to the role, contrasting Wednesday’s stoicism and setting up promising sibling dynamics. Meanwhile, their mother, Morticia Addams (Catherine Zeta-Jones), takes on a more prominent presence, attending school functions and offering maternal guidance amid the academy’s evolving leadership. Zeta-Jones exudes elegance and poise, her interactions with Ortega highlighting the generational quirks that define the Addams clan.

The episode also spotlights Wednesday’s roommate, Enid Sinclair (Emma Myers), whose growth into a more confident figure adds warmth to the narrative. Enid’s journey reflects themes of self-acceptance and friendship, as she balances her social circle with loyalty to Wednesday. Myers delivers a lively performance that complements Ortega’s, creating moments of genuine camaraderie that ground the show’s whimsical elements. Their shared scenes, including late-night conversations in their dorm, underscore the enduring bond that fans adored from Season 1.

Leadership changes at Nevermore introduce new tensions and opportunities. Steve Buscemi steps in as Principal Barry Dort, a charismatic yet ambitious administrator with a flair for tradition. Buscemi’s portrayal blends affability with shrewdness, as Dort implements policies aimed at boosting school spirit and finances—such as fundraising galas and restored cultural events. His decisions ripple through the student body, affecting characters like Bianca Barclay (Joy Sunday), the scholarship student navigating her responsibilities with resilience. Sunday’s nuanced take on Bianca highlights the pressures of ambition in a competitive setting, adding depth to the ensemble.

Musical elements weave seamlessly into the plot, courtesy of new faculty member Ms. Capri (Billie Piper). As the music instructor, Piper encourages Wednesday to explore emotional expression through her cello playing, leading to a poignant performance of Prokofiev’s work. This sequence not only showcases Ortega’s musical talents—drawing from her real-life proficiency—but also serves as a metaphor for Wednesday’s gradual opening up. The cello solo, set against the academy’s grand hall, becomes a standout moment, blending classical elegance with the series’ offbeat vibe.

Beyond the academy walls, the nearby town of Jericho provides a contrasting backdrop. Local law enforcement sees shifts, with Deputy Santiago (Luyanda Unati Lewis-Nyawo) stepping up to a leadership role, bringing a sense of order to community matters. Subtle nods to past events tie the town to Nevermore, fostering a lived-in feel that enriches the world-building. References to artistic inspirations, like drawings from former acquaintances, add personal stakes, reminding viewers of Wednesday’s interconnected past without overshadowing the present.

Thematically, “Here We Woe Again” delves into adaptation and identity, core to the Addams Family ethos. It examines how individuals with extraordinary gifts fit into structured environments, mirroring broader discussions on diversity and inclusion. The episode celebrates outcast pride through pep rallies and communal gatherings, while gently probing the challenges of fame and expectation. Wednesday’s arc, in particular, grapples with vulnerability—her foresight moments reveal not just predictions but emotional undercurrents, challenging her self-reliant facade. Ortega navigates this with subtlety, her eyes conveying turmoil that words never touch, a testament to her range as a performer.

Production-wise, the premiere maintains the high visual standards set by Burton’s direction. Cinematography captures Nevermore’s architecture in sweeping shots, from foggy courtyards to candlelit halls, evoking a timeless allure. The score, composed by Danny Elfman, enhances the mood with its quirky orchestration, blending orchestral swells with playful motifs. Special effects highlight character abilities in creative ways, such as animated sequences that pay homage to stop-motion classics, adding a layer of whimsy to key reveals.

Fan reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with social media buzzing about Ortega’s commanding screen presence. Posts on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) praise the episode’s balance of humor and heart, with hashtags like #WednesdayS2 and #HereWeWoeAgain trending globally. One viewer noted, “Jenna Ortega owns every frame—Wednesday’s back, and she’s sharper than ever.” The premiere’s success underscores the series’ appeal to a wide audience, from teens discovering the Addams lore to adults revisiting it through a modern lens.

Looking ahead, the episode plants seeds for season-long arcs, including family explorations and school rivalries. Pugsley’s enrollment promises comedic escapades, while Enid’s maturation hints at evolving alliances. Wednesday’s enhanced perceptions suggest a narrative push toward self-discovery, potentially intersecting with Morticia’s own history. With a confirmed eight-episode arc for Season 2, split into two parts, anticipation builds for how these threads will intertwine.

Ortega’s involvement extends beyond acting; she served as an executive producer, influencing creative choices that align with her vision for the character. In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, she shared, “Wednesday is about embracing the unconventional—it’s what makes her timeless.” This passion shines through, elevating the premiere above standard fare.

As “Wednesday” enters its sophomore year, it reaffirms its status as appointment viewing. The Addams Family’s macabre charm, reimagined for today’s screens, continues to captivate, proving that in a world craving authenticity, Wednesday Addams remains irresistibly unique. With strong writing, stellar casting, and Ortega at its helm, Season 2 is poised for even greater heights.