Described by critics as “gripping” and “intriguing”, M-Net’s edgy thriller drama Lioness will be back for season 2 on 26 January 2023.
Starring Shannon Esra (as Samantha Hugo) alongside an impressive ensemble of supporting actors, the award-nominated Ochre Moving Pictures series follows the story of a woman fresh out of jail for fraud, who returns to a life even more fractured than when she left.
After the cliffhanger finale of season 1, season 2 picks up with Adrian Hugo’s (played by Jacques Bessenger) second wife (played by Carla Classen) in desperate search for her missing husband. The fiercely protective mother (as the titular “lioness”) that she is, Samantha must shield her son Liam (played by Joshua Eady), no matter the cost.
But when Sam discovers that Adrian's death was not all it seemed, the lioness goes in for the kill.
About reprising her award-nominated and acclaimed lead role, Shannon Esra says: “Sam is a force of nature, and what she has to endure throughout season 2 was such a challenge. I love pushing myself as an actor, and in this performance, I was given the beautiful opportunity to do just that.”
She continues: “Sam paints outside of the lines, often diverging from what may be acceptable under the rule of law, which is always a scary thing to encompass authentically and with a sense of truth. But in doing so, I honour the character’s journey, and hopefully, the audience will be right behind her!”
Jan du Plessis, channel director: M-Net Channels, says: “Lioness performed well in its first season, both with audiences and critics. The series also made waves on an international level, which is in line with M-Net’s strategy to produce content that resonates both at home and abroad. We’re excited to have it return for a second season and look forward to more twists and turns for the audience.”
Newcomers for the season are award-winner Vinette Ebrahim (Barakat), who plays Vera, an introverted and aloof ice queen whose fractured family needs warmth. Carl Beukes (Dominion) plays Max, an enigmatic lone wolf who will do whatever it takes to get the job done in helping his half-sister find justice. Theo Landey (Black Sails) joins the cast as Thomas, a sensitive and intelligent teacher whose kindness lands him in hot water. Ayden Croy (Verstikking) plays Kevin, a warm-hearted young man trying to build a new life after a tragic past.
Season 1 of Lioness is available to binge on DStv Catch Up from 19 December 2022 – so if you haven’t yet seen it or need a refresher, it’s an excellent addition to your festive season watchlist.
Lioness season 2 premieres on M-Net (DStv Channel 101) on Thursday 26 January 2023 at 20:00. Don’t miss it!
Lioness S2 is produced by Ochre Pictures. The series is available on DStv Premium on M-Net (Channel 101) every Thursday at 20:00 from 26 January 2023, as well as live-streamed on the DStv app, and is also available on DStv Catch Up after broadcast. Join the conversation on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, using #LionessSA.