Big Little Lies to return to HBO for season 2

Here’s an early Christmas present from HBO, as Big Little Lies season 2 is happening!

After the success of Big Little Lies on HBO this year, it’s no surprise the premium network has opted to bring the limited series back for a second season. HBO made the announcement today, Friday, December 8, and it’s bringing Andrea Arnold (Transparent) to direct the entire seven-episode slate, according to Vulture.

Actress Reese Witherspoon was “thrilled to be bringing back this talented team of artists,” in her statement regarding the announcement from HBO.

"It gives us the opportunity to delve deeper into the lives of these intriguing and intricate Monterey families and bring more of their stories back to the audience who embraced and championed them. I’m beyond excited to be working with talented and acclaimed director Andrea Arnold who will be at the helm. Andrea’s unique storytelling style will be a welcome addition to the filmmaking team.”"

The HBO press release indicates that most of the cast from season 1 is expected to return, and are currently in contract negotiations. David E. Kelley returns to write the season, which is based on a story from author Liane Moriarty (Big Little Lies). Jean-Marc Vallée — director of the first season — is returning in an executive producer capacity.

Vulture also notes that auditions for new characters have begun for the following characters:

"• Michael Perkins, a new second-grade teacher at Otter Bay Elementary School who wants to cultivate global and social consciousness in his young students."

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Apparently, Renata (portrayed by Laura Dern) gets angry when the new teacher has a lesson on global warming which, in turn, gives Amabella a panic attack. Renata is a real peach.

"• A new employee in the school administration office who befriends Jane (portrayed by Shailene Woodley)."

At some point, Jane and this new female employee learn each other’s “deepest secrets.”

"• Bonnie’s parents, Elizabeth and Martin Howard."

Bonnie’s mother turns out to be a horrible person, and her father is “emotionally distant.”

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There has been no official release date set for Big Little Lies season 2.