“UnREAL” Season 2 is getting some hype lately after it was rumored that the show will feature an African-American “Everlasting” bachelor for the first time. According to the producers of the Lifetime series, the decision to cast a black man was a “no-brainer.”
“There are few things more pressing than this conversation. We don’t want to fall asleep at the wheel,” said co-creator Sarah Gertrude Shapiro at the Television Critics Association winter press tour in Pasadena, California. Shapiro is a former producer of “Bachelor,” and shared that based on her experience in reality-TV shows, the lack of diversity led them to make pragmatic decisions that would not alienate the audience, among other things.
Executive producer Carol Barbee told Entertainment Weekly that Season 2 will explore the effects of the predominantly white media attempting to make a statement about race. Shapiro added that the issue has resulted to very awkward conversations off screen and that the writer’s room has been very intense. Season 2 of “UnREAL” will generally look the same, although it will take on new issues.
Shapiro explained that it was essential that the show remains with its Quinn (Constance Zimmer) and Rachel (Shiri Appleby)tandem and “Everlasting” format, but the theme would explore the effects of changing the bachelor. Barbee also teased that Jeremy (Josh Kelly), who is brokenhearted and out for revenge, will be returning and gunning for Rachel. Chet (Craig Bierko), will also discover his inner man, which will most likely have consequences on a set with several women.
Co-creator Marti Noxon said that they were very much intrigued by sexual politics, TVLine revealed. The previous season focused on the princess fantasy. The second season will delve more on masculinity and how the men’s rights movement relate with feminism.
Entertainment Weekly revealed that the new bachelor will be Darius Hill, a professional football player in his twenties. His presence will have a huge impact since previous shows that were similar to “Everlasting” never had an African-American lead.
Shapiro also shared that she is very nervous about “UnREAL” Season 2. Introducing the story about race is very scary. The show will also address gender equality. Overall, the upcoming season is expected to be edgier.
“UnREAL” Season 2 will premiere in summer 2016 on Lifetime. All 10 episodes of Season 1 will become available on Hulu on Feb. 3, 2016. More updates and details on the plot and cast are expected soon.