The doors of The Institute aren’t closing anytime soon. MGM+ has officially renewed the thriller series, adapted from Stephen King’s 2019 novel, for an eight-episode second season. King himself announced the news, teasing that even darker dangers await.
The series launched earlier this year as the most-watched premiere in MGM+ history, and its return is no surprise given the strong reception. The Institute is executive produced by King alongside Jack Bender (Lost, Mr. Mercedes, From) and Benjamin Cavell (Justified, The Stand), with MGM+ Studios behind the production.
Season 1 followed the harrowing journey of children with extraordinary abilities, trapped inside a sinister facility where they’re exploited and controlled. The ensemble included Ben Barnes (Shadow and Bone), Mary-Louise Parker (Weeds), Joe Freeman, Simone Miller (Run the Burbs), Fionn Laird (Under the Banner of Heaven), Jason Diaz, and Jane Luk. Casting for season 2 will be announced later.
While the first season centered on escape, the next chapter promises to raise the stakes as the survivors face new threats in the outside world. “Set free but hunted, new dangers await,” King said in his announcement.
Season 2 will stream exclusively on MGM+ across the U.S., UK, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Brazil, Mexico, Chile, and Colombia. Amazon MGM Studios Distribution will handle rollout in other international territories.
With its blend of supernatural suspense and sharp social commentary, The Institute is shaping up to be another gripping addition to King’s ever-expanding on-screen legacy.