# Netflix Sci-Fi Thriller Below Poised for Potential Second Season Star Mackenzie Davis confirms Josh Hartnett has pitched a compelling concept for season two. - **Source:** [Screen Rant](https://screenrant.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-12 - **Topic:** [entertainment](https://brifing.si/c/entertainment) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/3ff6910d-a3c1-4984-894c-5ded31510616 ## Genre-Bending Success on Netflix Netflix's 2026 thriller series Below has emerged as a standout hit, blending cosmic horror reminiscent of H.P. Lovecraft with the small-town mystery atmosphere typical of Stephen King. The show, which debuted on October 8, has captivated audiences with its unique premise involving monstrous threats lurking within the waters of a coastal town. ## Critical Acclaim and Performance The series currently holds a strong 87% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 53 reviews, earning it the Certified Fresh designation. Beyond critical reception, the show has demonstrated significant staying power, remaining on Netflix's Global Top 10 TV Shows chart for five consecutive weeks, proving its massive appeal to global subscribers. ## Star-Led Expansion Plans Lead actor Josh Hartnett, who portrays Calvin Penney, has reportedly developed a concrete pitch for a second season. Mackenzie Davis, who plays marine biologist Dr. Fonda Howander, confirmed that Hartnett shared this concept at the conclusion of the first season's production, expressing her own enthusiasm for returning to the mysterious coastal setting. ## From Limited to Ongoing Although initially marketed as a limited series, Below follows a growing trend of Netflix projects being extended beyond their original scope. The platform has previously renewed other acclaimed limited series, such as Beef, demonstrating a willingness to continue successful narratives if the creative vision and audience demand align with the platform's strategic goals. ## The Cliffhanger Setup The first season finale provided a clear narrative bridge for future episodes, concluding with the appearance of another massive iceberg one year after the primary events. This cliffhanger directly involves Calvin Penney and his son Wade, played by Charlie Heaton, setting the stage for them to confront recurring monstrous threats in the future. ## Creative Team and Production The show is helmed by showrunner Jesse McKeown, with episodes directed by Jamie Childs, Stephen Dunn, and Helen Shaver. The writing team, including Perry Chafe and Karen Walton, crafted a six-episode arc that balanced character-driven drama with high-stakes sci-fi horror, creating a foundation that supports the potential for a broader, expanded mystery. ## Competitive Streaming Landscape In a year defined by record-breaking thriller debuts like His Hers and I Will Find You, Below has managed to carve out a distinct identity. While some critics compared its tone to lighter fare, the show's ability to maintain viewership momentum suggests it occupies a valuable niche within the competitive Netflix library. ## Future Prospects for Below Given the combination of Hartnett's pitch, the unresolved narrative threads, and consistent global viewership, a renewal appears increasingly likely. Fans are now waiting for an official announcement from Netflix, as the show's transition from a self-contained limited series to a multi-season franchise seems to be a logical step for the streamer. ## Sources covering this story - https://screenrant.com/netflix-below-season-2-series-return-possible/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._