Netflix’s gripping crime thriller Untamed captivated audiences with its first season, set against the breathtaking yet perilous backdrop of Yosemite National Park. Premiering on July 17, 2025, the series followed National Park Service Investigative Services Branch (ISB) special agent Kyle Turner, portrayed by Eric Bana, as he unraveled the mystery of a young woman’s death from El Capitan.
The show, lauded for its moody visuals and character-driven storytelling, left viewers craving more with its blend of raw wilderness and human darkness. Now, Untamed Season 2 is poised to dive deeper into the untamed heart of America’s national parks, introducing a new, dangerous criminal and exposing a cascade of shocking secrets that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
In Season 1, Kyle Turner, a decorated yet haunted ISB agent, grappled with personal tragedy while solving the murder of Lucy Cook, a runaway revealed to be the daughter of Chief Park Ranger Paul Souter, played by Sam Neill. The investigation uncovered a web of deceit, including a drug ring operating in abandoned mining tunnels and a devastating secret from Turner’s past: his ex-wife Jill (Rosemarie DeWitt) had hired wildlife officer Shane Maguire (Wilson Bethel) to kill Sean Sanderson, the man responsible for their son Caleb’s death.
The season ended with Turner leaving Yosemite, his future uncertain but ripe for new adventures. Season 2 promises to build on this foundation, thrusting Turner into a fresh case in a different national park, where a new criminal’s actions threaten to unravel the fragile balance between nature and humanity.
While Netflix has not officially confirmed Untamed Season 2 as of July 2025, the show’s creators, Mark L. Smith and Elle Smith, have hinted at a compelling direction for the series. The ISB’s unique role allows agents to tackle cases across the vast National Park system, from the icy peaks of Alaska to the sun-scorched deserts of the Southwest. Co-showrunner Elle Smith has suggested that a second season would explore a new park and a distinct case, offering a fresh canvas for Turner’s relentless pursuit of justice. “If we got the opportunity to do it again, it would be getting to explore a different park, a different case,” Smith told TV Insider, sparking excitement about the potential for a new setting to amplify the series’ signature blend of natural beauty and lurking danger.
The new criminal at the center of Season 2 is described as a cunning and ruthless figure, whose actions ripple through the chosen national park, leaving a trail of chaos. Unlike the drug-fueled conspiracy of Season 1, this antagonist operates with a chilling precision, their motives shrouded in mystery.
The narrative will delve into their backstory, revealing how their descent into crime intertwines with the park’s hidden histories—perhaps tied to long-forgotten conflicts, illegal operations, or even supernatural legends whispered among park locals. The stakes are higher, as Turner, still scarred from his past, must confront not only the criminal but also the psychological toll of his relentless investigations.
Joining Turner is rookie ranger Naya Vasquez (Lily Santiago), whose role in Season 1 proved she’s more than capable of holding her own in the wilderness. Vasquez, a former LA cop and single mother, brought emotional depth and grit to the investigation, saving Turner’s life in a dramatic showdown. In Season 2, her character is expected to evolve, taking on greater responsibilities as she navigates the complexities of a new case. The dynamic between Turner and Vasquez will deepen, exploring themes of trust and redemption as they face the unforgiving terrain and a criminal who exploits it to their advantage.
The series’ strength lies in its ability to weave personal drama with the raw power of nature. The new park setting—potentially a stark contrast to Yosemite’s granite cliffs, such as the volcanic landscapes of Yellowstone or the dense forests of Great Smoky Mountains—will serve as both a character and a threat. The showrunners have emphasized the dangers lurking beyond the scenic vistas, where isolation and unpredictable conditions strip away modern conveniences, forcing characters to rely on instinct and resilience. This primal backdrop amplifies the tension, as every clue uncovered risks exposing secrets that some would kill to keep buried.
As Untamed Season 2 approaches, fans are buzzing with anticipation, fueled by the show’s strong debut, which hit No. 1 on Netflix’s U.S. charts. Despite mixed critical reviews—praising Bana’s grounded performance but noting a occasionally slow pace—the series’ atmospheric storytelling and emotional depth have resonated with viewers. Social media posts reflect a hunger for more, with fans speculating about new mysteries and park settings. Eric Bana, both star and executive producer, has remained coy about the show’s future, telling Variety, “We’ll have to wait and see,” but his enthusiasm for exploring Turner’s next chapter is palpable.
Untamed Season 2 promises to be a thrilling continuation, blending heart-pounding suspense with the untamed beauty of America’s wild spaces. As Kyle Turner faces a new criminal and a fresh wave of secrets, viewers can expect a journey that’s as emotionally raw as it is visually stunning. With its unique premise and stellar cast, Untamed is set to cement its place as a must-watch thriller, proving that in the wilderness, no one can escape their past—or the dangers that lie ahead. All episodes of Untamed Season 1 are streaming on Netflix, setting the stage for what could be an unforgettable second chapter.
