With its 100% rotten tomatoes score, BBC Three and iPlayer have renewed Daniel Lawrence Taylor’s comedy-drama series ‘Boarders’ for a second season. The six-episode series follows five Black teenagers from inner-city London who receive scholarships to the prestigious St Gilbert’s boarding school in what is portrayed as a superficial public relations move to enhance the institution’s reputation.
The main cast includes Josh Tedeku, Jodie Campbell, Myles Kamwendo, Aruna Jalloh, and Sekou Diaby, playing Jaheim, Leah, Omar, Femi, and Toby, respectively. The first season debuted in the UK in February 2024 and was released in the United States on March 8, 2024, via Tubi.
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Season one saw these five outsiders begin to thrive and season two asks how much they’re willing to sacrifice just to survive.
In the upcoming season, viewers will see headmaster Bernard (Derek Riddell) suspended, with Carol Watlington-Geese (Niky Wardley) stepping in as acting headmistress. Her appointment spells trouble for the protagonists, as she is determined to expel them from St Gilbert’s. This development is particularly problematic for Jaheim, who has an ongoing rivalry with Carol’s son, Rupert (played by Harry Gilby).
Further returning cast so far include Tallulah Greive (Beatrix), Rosie Graham (Florence) and Assa Kanouté (Abby).
Lawrence Taylor, the creator and writer of the series, expressed his excitement about the renewal, stating, “The response to the first series has been incredibly inspiring, and I’m thrilled to announce the arrival of our second! What I’ve cherished most about creating this series is showcasing Black experiences on screen and seeing how it resonates with everyone.”
Executive producer Madeleine Sinclair added, “We’re so excited to be returning to the world of ‘Boarders’ for the BBC. Series 1 saw our five leads navigating the complicated world of St Gilbert’s in their own unique ways. Series 2 will follow their journeys across a new term of challenges as they strive to succeed. Daniel’s fantastic scripts continue to offer an irresistible blend of comedy and drama, and our gifted cast is back to make us laugh, cry, and thoroughly entertain.”
Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, also commented on the show’s success, stating, “With brilliant scripts from Daniel and star-making performances from its young cast, ‘Boarders’ has received a fantastic response since arriving on BBC iPlayer and BBC Three earlier this year. We’re delighted to enroll for another term.”
While an official premiere date for the second season has not yet been announced, the cast has confirmed that filming will begin this summer, making a late 2024 or early 2025 release likely. Season 2 will continue to explore the challenges and triumphs of the main characters, with six 45-minute episodes expected.
Originally read on BBC.