Steve Buscemi has been cast in the second season of the Netflix series "Wednesday," according to sources.
While specific details about his character are being kept under wraps, insiders reveal that Buscemi will portray the new principal of Nevermore Academy, the boarding school attended by the show's character, Wednesday Addams.
Representatives for both Netflix and Buscemi have declined to comment on the matter.
"Wednesday" was renewed for a second season in January 2023, following its successful debut in November 2022. The series, a spin-off of the Addams Family franchise, centers around the gothic teenager Wednesday as she navigates her new life at Nevermore Academy.
In an interview with Tudum.com at the renewal announcement, Creators/Showrunners/Executive Producers Alfred Gough and Miles Millar expressed their excitement about continuing Wednesday's story.
"It's been incredible to create a show that has connected with people across the world," they said. "Thrilled to continue Wednesday's tortuous journey into season two. We can't wait to dive headfirst into another season and explore the kooky spooky world of Nevermore. Just need to make sure Wednesday hasn't emptied the pool first."
The first season of "Wednesday" was a massive success for Netflix, breaking records with 341.2 million viewing hours in its debut week, surpassing the previous record held by "Stranger Things." On December 13, 2022, the Tim Burton-helmed show crossed the 1 billion hours viewed mark, further cementing its status as a global phenomenon.
Buscemi, a highly acclaimed actor known for his versatility in dramatic and comedic roles, is expected to bring his unique talent to the series. His previous notable works include films such as "Reservoir Dogs," "Fargo," and "The Death of Stalin," as well as television roles in "Boardwalk Empire," "Miracle Workers," and "The Sopranos." Buscemi is an eight-time Emmy nominee and won the award for best short-form variety series in 2016 for "Park Bench with Steve Buscemi."
While few details about the upcoming season are available, fans can expect Jenna Ortega to reprise her role as Wednesday Addams. The first season concluded with Wednesday successfully solving a series of grisly murders and thwarting an attempt to destroy Nevermore and its students.
Production on Season 2 was delayed due to the writers' and actors' strikes that impacted Hollywood in 2023. However, filming is set to begin in late April in Ireland.