‘Nobody Wants This’ Season 2: Release Date, Returning Cast, and What to Expect From Netflix’s Smartest Rom-Com

The first season of Nobody Wants This left audiences equal parts charmed and craving more — and thankfully, more is on the way. Created by Erin Foster and inspired by her real-life romance with husband Simon Tikhman, the Netflix series has quickly gained a loyal following for its fresh take on love, identity, and the modern relationship maze.

At the heart of Nobody Wants This is the unlikely pairing of Noah (played by Adam Brody), a charming yet unconventional rabbi, and Joanne (Kristen Bell), a sharp, agnostic sex podcaster who isn’t afraid to question everything — especially tradition. The two meet at a dinner party thrown by mutual friends, and from the moment their eyes lock, sparks fly. But of course, no great love story is without its complications. Their undeniable chemistry is shadowed by a looming spiritual divide — Noah is devoutly Jewish, while Joanne doesn’t believe in God at all. The show plays with this tension with heart, honesty, and hilarity.

Season 2 Is Officially Happening

The buzz around Nobody Wants This hasn’t slowed since its debut. In fact, it seems like things have only accelerated. Netflix officially announced in October 2024 that Season 2 is on its way, aiming for a 2025 release. While a specific premiere date hasn’t been revealed yet, it’s expected to land in the latter half of the year — giving fans plenty of time to speculate (and rewatch Season 1).

Jackie Tohn, who plays Ester, recently gave a behind-the-scenes update in an interview with Deadline, revealing that filming is scheduled to begin in March 2025. Tohn reflected on how quickly things have moved since Season 1 first dropped.

“It sort of feels like we haven’t stopped since season 1,” she shared. “We came out and then we were doing press. Then we were sort of thrust right into awards season, which was sort of insane that we were even included in that conversation. And now, we’re starting season 2 already.”

Her excitement echoes what fans feel: this show is moving fast because it’s struck a chord — and audiences can’t get enough.

Returning (and New!) Cast Members

What makes Nobody Wants This stand out — besides the smart writing and unique premise — is its brilliant ensemble cast. Fortunately, the leads will return. Adam Brody and Kristen Bell are set to reprise their roles as Noah and Joanne, the couple we’re all rooting for (even if we’re still not sure how they’ll make it work long-term).

Joining them once again are Justine Lupe and Timothy Simons as Morgan and Sasha, the supportive (and often hilarious) siblings of the lead characters. Their sibling banter and emotional arcs helped ground Season 1, and their return is a welcome one.

We’ll also see more of the on-screen parents: Tovah Feldshuh and Paul Ben-Victor will continue as Noah’s traditional, occasionally overbearing parents, Bina and Ilan. Meanwhile, Stephanie Faracy and Michael Hitchcock return as Joanne’s offbeat and endearing parents, Henry and Lynne.

But here’s where things get really exciting: new cast members are entering the scene. Leighton Meester — Brody’s real-life wife and beloved star of Gossip Girl — will appear in Season 2 as Abby, an Instagram mommy influencer who also happens to be Joanne’s old middle school nemesis. Expect sparks, drama, and likely some hilariously awkward confrontations.

Also joining the cast is The Matzah Ballers star Miles Fowler, who will play Lenny — a new love interest being set up with Morgan. Could this spell the end of Morgan and Sasha’s confusing connection? Or will it stir the pot even more?

What’s Next for Noah and Joanne?

Season 1 ended on a cliffhanger that was as emotionally satisfying as it was narratively open-ended. After a whirlwind of personal and spiritual upheaval, Noah chooses to be with Joanne, even if it means giving up his chance at becoming the head rabbi. Joanne, who’d briefly considered converting to Judaism for Noah, ultimately decides she’s not quite ready for such a major change.

Their final moment — with Noah rushing out to stop Joanne as she’s leaving a Bat Mitzvah — was romantic and cinematic, but also left room for doubt. In the heat of the moment, love feels like it can conquer all. But what happens in the morning light? Will Noah come to regret sacrificing a defining part of his identity? Will Joanne feel pressure to compromise more than she’s willing?

These deeper questions around love, compromise, identity, and authenticity are expected to take center stage in Season 2. It won’t just be about whether they stay together — it’ll be about how two people from different worlds build a life that respects both their truths.

Sibling Subplots & Complicated Chemistry

Another lingering thread from Season 1 involves Morgan and Sasha, the siblings of Joanne and Noah, respectively. Throughout the season, their interactions hinted at something more than platonic — but the situation is far from simple. Morgan is single, but Sasha is married and has a young daughter.

So, what exactly is the nature of their relationship? Are they developing feelings they shouldn’t be? Or is the show teeing up a conversation about whether men and women can truly be just friends, even in close, emotional bonds?

Whatever the case, Morgan and Sasha’s subplot promises to bring complexity — and likely some chaos — to Season 2. Throw in the addition of Lenny (Morgan’s potential new love interest), and you’ve got the makings of a love triangle that could challenge friendships, loyalties, and family dynamics.

A Smart Rom-Com That Isn’t Afraid to Ask Big Questions

Nobody Wants This thrives because it blends sharp humor with emotional intelligence. It’s romantic without being sappy, witty without being cynical. It’s rare to find a rom-com that also explores faith, belief, compromise, and self-worth with this kind of nuance. And judging by what we know about Season 2, these themes are only going to deepen.

While we wait for new episodes, fans looking for something similar might want to check out Normal People (on Hulu) or Modern Love (on Prime Video). Both series explore modern relationships in layered and often bittersweet ways — perfect placeholders while the countdown to Nobody Wants This Season 2 continues.