On December 18, 2025, Netflix will unleash the highly anticipated second season of Untamed, the gripping crime thriller that captivated audiences with its raw portrayal of human conflict against the untamed beauty of America’s national parks. Following the explosive success of its debut season, which soared to the top of Netflix’s global charts, Untamed is back with a new mystery, a new national park, and a promise to push its characters—and viewers—into uncharted territory. With dark secrets lurking in the wilderness and justice hanging in the balance, Season 2 is poised to deliver an even more intense exploration of nature’s lawless heart.

A New Chapter in a New Wilderness

The first season of Untamed, set against the majestic yet perilous backdrop of Yosemite National Park, introduced us to Kyle Turner, a seasoned Investigative Services Branch (ISB) agent played with brooding intensity by Eric Bana. Turner’s investigation into a brutal death unraveled a web of secrets, from drug operations to personal betrayals, all while he grappled with the ghosts of his own tragic past. The season’s finale saw Turner leave Yosemite, shedding emotional baggage but leaving viewers hungry for more.

Season 2 takes Turner to a new national park, one deliberately chosen to contrast the rugged granite cliffs of Yosemite. While the exact location remains under wraps, showrunners Mark L. Smith and Elle Smith have teased that the new setting will be as much a character as the human players. Each national park has its own cultural and geographical identity, and this season’s park will challenge Turner in ways he’s never experienced. Unlike Yosemite, where he was in his element, this new terrain will place him on unsteady ground, forcing him to navigate unfamiliar dangers and distrustful locals.

The shift in setting promises a fresh narrative approach. The Smiths have emphasized that the mystery will be “organic” to the new park’s landscape, avoiding repetitive tropes like another fatal fall from a cliff. Instead, the case will reflect the unique characteristics of the environment, whether it’s dense forests, sprawling deserts, or treacherous wetlands. This commitment to authenticity ensures that Untamed remains a love letter to America’s wild spaces, even as it delves into their darker undercurrents.

Kyle Turner: A Hero Out of His Element

At the heart of Untamed is Eric Bana’s portrayal of Kyle Turner, a man whose stoic exterior masks deep emotional scars. Still haunted by the loss of his son, Caleb, six years prior, Turner is a complex figure—part detective, part wounded soul. In Season 2, he’s thrust into a new investigation that will test his resilience and instincts. The showrunners have hinted that Turner will be “on his back foot,” a stark contrast to his confident command in Yosemite. This vulnerability promises to deepen his character, as he grapples with both external threats and internal doubts.

Bana, who also serves as an executive producer, has expressed enthusiasm for the new season. “The response to Season 1 was overwhelming,” he said in a statement. “It’s a testament to our team’s dedication to creating something unique. I’m excited to take Kyle on this next journey, where he’ll face challenges that push him to his limits.” Fans can expect Bana’s performance to anchor the series once again, blending grit with quiet moments of introspection.

A Cast of Familiar and New Faces

While Eric Bana is confirmed to return as Kyle Turner, the fate of other Season 1 characters remains uncertain. The first season featured a stellar ensemble, including Sam Neill as Paul Souter, the chief park ranger with a tragic secret, Rosemarie DeWitt as Turner’s ex-wife Jill Bodwin, and Lily Santiago as rookie ranger Naya Vasquez. The finale tied up many of their stories, with some characters meeting grim fates, but the Smiths have teased the possibility of familiar faces returning if it serves the narrative.

Naya Vasquez, in particular, left a strong impression as Turner’s determined protégé. Santiago has voiced her excitement for a potential return, stating she’d love to see Naya tackle more mysteries. Whether she reappears depends on the new park’s setting and the story’s demands, but her dynamic with Turner could add continuity to the series’ emotional core. New characters are also expected to join, bringing fresh perspectives and conflicts to the mix. The casting choices will likely reflect the cultural and historical nuances of the new park, ensuring a rich, diverse ensemble.

A Mystery That Defies Expectations

The first season of Untamed was praised for its slow-burn suspense and shocking twists, earning an 82% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics lauded its ability to weave personal drama with a compelling whodunit, all set against the breathtaking visuals of Yosemite. Season 2 aims to raise the stakes, with a mystery that’s distinct from its predecessor. The Smiths have promised a case that’s deeply tied to the new park’s identity, exploring themes of justice, survival, and the clash between human ambition and nature’s indifference.

The narrative will likely delve into the moral gray areas that made Season 1 so compelling. Turner’s investigations often reveal that the wilderness is not just a backdrop but a force that exposes human flaws. Whether it’s greed, betrayal, or desperation, the new mystery will force characters to confront their darkest impulses. The show’s ability to balance high-stakes drama with quiet, character-driven moments will be key to its continued success.

The Wilderness as a Character

One of Untamed’s greatest strengths is its portrayal of nature as a living, breathing entity. The national parks are not mere settings but active players in the story, shaping the characters’ choices and fates. The new park in Season 2 will bring its own challenges, from unpredictable weather to treacherous terrain. The Smiths have described the park as a “crucible” that tests everyone who enters, and viewers can expect stunning cinematography that captures its beauty and danger.

This focus on the environment also carries a deeper message. Untamed explores humanity’s complex relationship with nature, highlighting both its awe-inspiring grandeur and its unforgiving power. As climate change and conservation become increasingly urgent issues, the series offers a timely reflection on our responsibility to protect these wild spaces.

Why December 18 Matters

The choice of December 18, 2025, for the premiere is strategic, positioning Untamed as a must-watch during the holiday season, when viewers are eager for binge-worthy content. With six episodes, the season is designed for a compact yet immersive experience, perfect for a weekend marathon. Netflix’s decision to fast-track the renewal after Season 1’s 24.6 million views in its first week underscores the show’s global appeal. By releasing Season 2 just five months after the renewal announcement, Netflix is capitalizing on the buzz while keeping the momentum alive.

A Thrilling Journey Awaits

As Untamed Season 2 prepares to drop, anticipation is at an all-time high. Fans are eager to see where Kyle Turner’s journey takes him next, what secrets the new park holds, and how justice will prevail in a place where nature makes its own rules. The series’ blend of heart-pounding suspense, rich character development, and stunning visuals promises to deliver another unforgettable chapter.

Will Turner find redemption in the wilderness, or will the new mystery unravel him completely? One thing is certain: when Untamed returns on December 18, it will take viewers on a wild ride into the heart of darkness—and the heart of hope. Prepare to lose yourself in the untamed beauty of America’s national parks, where every shadow hides a secret, and every step could be your last.