NBC’s drama This Is Us was undeniably the breakout show of the 2016-2017 season. For those that have not yet to jumped on the This Is Us bandwagon, the series follows the Pearson family during the many ups and downs of their lives. The series was renewed for a sophomore season in January and concluded its first season in March. Many fans have been curious about what else is in store for the Pearson family since Season 1 came to a close. Variety spoke with cast members Sterling K. Brown, Chrissy Metz and Milo Ventimiglia on the website’s podcast “Remote Controlled” on Friday to preview Season 2 of This Is Us.
The cast was quick to discuss their excitement over the 10 Emmy nominations they received. “For any show, that’s huge. For a network show to be part of the conversation in that way is absolutely outstanding,” said Brown. He also added that he’s disappointed that the writers were not acknowledged with nominations. “We ain’t coming up with this stuff on our own. … As time goes by, I hope the writers get their due.” Ventimiglia revealed that the nominations have not changed their work ethic. “The heart you put into the work is the same as before. Showing up with this group of people … it’s a joy.”
It was revealed that the Big Three will celebrate their 37th birthdays during the upcoming season. Metz also promised that Season 2 will address all of the cliffhangers from the past season. The last time viewers saw Metz’s character Kate, she was attempting to start a career as a musician. “I will be doing a little singing,” said Metz. “It’s an exciting thread and through line for the character.”
Ventimiglia confirmed where Season 2 picks up for his character Jack and his wife Rebecca, played by Mandy Moore. He revealed, “Mom and Dad are trying to figure out how it all went wrong,” following the major fight featured in the Season 1 finale. “It’s heartbreaking. And it’s so relevant to what a lot of us experience as people,” he said. The actor does say that there is hope for the parents of the Pearson family. “Jack and Rebecca are working their way back to each other,” he said.
As for Jack’s death, Ventimiglia promised that fans will soon find out how the fan favorite character passes away. “Very quickly, you’re going to know what happened. … But if you pay attention, really close attention, there are markers and symbols that will help you understand the greater mystery of Jack dying.”
During the interview, Brown reflected on his past fears that Season 2 would not be as successful as its first. “You have the smallest amount of fear that there will be a sophomore slump, and you read 201 and you’re like, ‘No.’” He then said, “The stories shift and we go deeper into the past and further into the future.”
This Is Us will return for Season 2 on NBC on Tuesday, September 26.