BBC’s Cult Thriller ‘Taboo’ Is Back—And Hardy Promises It Will Be “Done Properly” This Time

After eight years of anticipation, the critically acclaimed period thriller Taboo is returning for a second season, and fans are already buzzing with excitement. Tom Hardy, who serves as both the lead actor and co-writer, confirmed in March 2025 that the show is in development. Although the second season is still in the works and no release date has been set, Taboo‘s return promises to be worth the wait.

Revisiting the Dark World of ‘Taboo’

Before diving into what’s coming in Season 2, it’s worth revisiting the first season’s thrilling plot. Created by Steven Knight, Taboo follows James Keziah Delaney, portrayed by Hardy, an unscrupulous explorer who returns to England after a decade spent in Africa. Upon his return, Delaney learns he has inherited Nootka Sound, a valuable parcel of land on the West Coast of North America, which attracts the interest of the East India Company. The first season explores themes of power, revenge, and betrayal, with a mysterious web of characters including Delaney’s half-sister and lover, Zilpha (Oona Chaplin), who plays a pivotal role in the story. As Delaney seeks to assert his control over Nootka Sound, he clashes with both the East India Company and the British government, setting the stage for intense drama and intrigue.

The first season of Taboo was a visual and narrative masterpiece, with Hardy’s magnetic performance at its core. The dark, moody atmosphere of the period drama, paired with its gritty storytelling, made it a standout hit. Now, fans are eagerly awaiting the continuation of Delaney’s journey in the wake of the shocking events that concluded the first season.

Hardy’s Commitment to ‘Taboo’ Season 2

Although it’s rare for TV shows to return after such a long hiatus, Hardy’s passion for Taboo has kept the project alive. Hardy, who co-wrote the series with his father Chips Hardy, has expressed how deeply personal the show is to him. In interviews, Hardy emphasized that Taboo is something he wants to do “properly,” ensuring that the storytelling remains compelling and authentic. His commitment to quality over speed is clear, as he took a backseat in recent years to focus on other projects, including Venom. Now, with more space to devote to the show, Hardy is ready to bring Delaney’s complex journey back to the screen.

In an interview with LadBible, Hardy confirmed that Taboo Season 2 is in the works, adding that the writing process is ongoing, with six of the eight episodes already written. Showrunner Steven Knight echoed this sentiment, expressing a desire to ensure that the show returns in a way that respects the original’s legacy.

What to Expect in Season 2

While specific plot details for Season 2 remain scarce, it’s clear that James Delaney’s story will continue to evolve in fascinating ways. The new season will likely pick up where the first left off, with Delaney navigating the aftermath of the War of 1812 and dealing with the collapse of the East India Company’s empire. Season 1 concluded with Delaney avenging Stuart Strange (Jonathan Pryce), the head of the East India Company, by planting a bomb in his office. The death of his half-sister and lover, Zilpha, and the chaotic political landscape surrounding Nootka Sound, leave Delaney grappling with deep personal loss and newfound responsibilities.

The second season will explore the fallout from these events. Delaney must confront the psychological and emotional toll of Zilpha’s tragic death, which was one of the most harrowing moments in the first season. Expect darker, more intense moments as Delaney deals with the weight of his past actions and the shifting political alliances around him.

However, with Jonathan Pryce and Oona Chaplin’s characters no longer part of the storyline, new faces are expected to join the cast. While new cast members have yet to be confirmed, fans can anticipate strong performances from both returning and fresh talent.

The Future of ‘Taboo’ and Its Legacy

The delayed return of Taboo speaks to the growing trend of long-gestating TV projects making a comeback. With so many storylines left unexplored in Season 1, Taboo has a vast potential to delve deeper into James Delaney’s complex psyche, as well as the broader societal shifts of 19th-century England. Hardy’s unique involvement as both actor and co-writer ensures that the series will maintain its distinct tone and creative integrity.

There’s a clear sense of anticipation surrounding Taboo Season 2, and while it may not hit screens immediately, it is certainly a project worth waiting for. As Hardy has mentioned, the creative team is taking its time to get it right, and fans should appreciate this thoughtful approach to storytelling.

In an era where many shows are rushed into production to meet streaming demands, Taboo stands out for its deliberate pacing and commitment to high-quality content. As a result, its second season is set to become a must-watch event, raising expectations for a truly unforgettable return to the dark world of James Delaney.

Until the official release date is confirmed, Taboo fans can take comfort in the knowledge that the series is being crafted with care and passion. The return of this enigmatic and thrilling period drama will undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about events in television for years to come.