Netflix Thriller 'Beef' Returns With Star-Studded Cast for Season 2

The anthology series continues its acclaimed run with Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, Charles Melton, and Cailee Spaeny leading the new season.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 8:10pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract close-up photograph of shattered glass reflecting dramatic studio lighting, conceptually representing the intense emotional conflict at the heart of the Netflix thriller series 'Beef.'The glamorous, high-stakes feud at the center of Netflix's 'Beef' season 2 promises to captivate audiences once again.Austin Today

Netflix's acclaimed thriller series 'Beef' is set to return for a second season on April 16, featuring a new star-studded ensemble cast. The first season, which debuted in 2023, was a hit thanks to its sharp writing and standout performances from leads Steven Yeun and Ali Wong. For the anthology's next chapter, Netflix has tapped Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, Charles Melton, and Cailee Spaeny to take on the leading roles, promising another intense feud between two very different couples.

Why it matters

The casting of 'Beef' season 2 showcases Netflix's ability to consistently attract top-tier talent for its original series, cementing the show's reputation as one of the streamer's best. The anthology format allows the series to explore new dynamics while maintaining the high-quality storytelling and performances that made the first season a critical success.

The details

In the new season, Isaac and Mulligan play Josh Martín and Lindsay Crane-Martín, a married couple, while Melton and Spaeny portray Austin Davis and Ashley Miller, a young couple working at a country club. After witnessing an intense fight between the older couple, the four characters become embroiled in a blackmail battle that is expected to escalate just as dramatically as the feud in the first season.

  • Beef season 1 debuted on Netflix on April 6, 2023.
  • Beef season 2 is set to premiere on Netflix on April 16, 2026.

The players

Oscar Isaac

An acclaimed actor known for roles in films like 'Ex Machina,' 'Inside Llewyn Davis,' and 'Dune.'

Carey Mulligan

An Oscar-winning actress recognized for her performances in movies such as 'Promising Young Woman' and 'The Great Gatsby.'

Charles Melton

A rising star who has appeared in projects like 'Riverdale' and the upcoming film 'May December.'

Cailee Spaeny

An up-and-coming actress featured in films such as 'Devs' and 'Priscilla.'

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“After the success of the first season, we knew we had to bring in an equally impressive cast to take the show to new heights in season 2.”

— Cindy Holland, Vice President of Original Series at Netflix

What’s next

Beef season 2 will premiere on Netflix on April 16, 2026, continuing the anthology series' exploration of intense feuds between complex characters.

The takeaway

Netflix's ability to consistently attract top acting talent, like Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, Charles Melton, and Cailee Spaeny, for its original series underscores the streamer's commitment to producing high-quality, must-watch content that resonates with audiences.