English Teacher Season 2 Announced Officially Despite Brian Jordan Alvarez Controversies

English Teacher has officially been renewed despite the surrounding controversy involving its creator and lead actor, Brian Jordan Alvarez. This series, which chronicles the intricate personal and professional journey of Texas educator Evan Marquez—portrayed by Alvarez—has garnered impressive acclaim, achieving a Certified Fresh rating of 98% from Rotten Tomatoes along with a commendable 85% audience score. However, the series’ future faced uncertainty after former co-star Jon Ebeling accused Alvarez of sexual assault in August 2024, shortly before the show’s anticipated September premiere.

According to reports from Deadline, FX has confirmed the renewal of English Teacher for its second season, which is slated to debut in 2025. This new season will consist of 10 episodes, an increase from the initial eight-episode order for season 1. This developmental pattern mirrors that of the acclaimed FX on Hulu dramedy, The Bear, which also expanded its episode count following a successful inaugural season. Impressively, The Bear has claimed 21 Emmys and five Golden Globes to date.

Implications of Renewal for English Teacher

A Complicated Success

Brian Jordan Alvarez as Evan smiling in English Teacher season 1

The decision to continue airing English Teacher is seen as sensible from a business viewpoint. In addition to receiving critical acclaim, the show also found considerable success online, with its premiere of two episodes reaching No.5 on the Reelgood Top 10 streaming chart, largely thanks to viewer numbers on Hulu. Moreover, while season 1 concluded without a cliffhanger, it clearly set the stage for potential romantic developments between Evan and his former partner, Malcolm (played by Jordan Firstman).

The ensemble cast includes notable actors such as Stephanie Koenig, Enrico Colantoni, Sean Patton, and Langston Kerman, enriching the narrative with depth and diversity.

Nonetheless, the renewal news is tempered by the serious allegations against Brian Jordan Alvarez. Ebeling has accused Alvarez of a 2016 sexual assault, which Alvarez’s spokesperson asserts was believed to be consensual. Furthermore, Alvarez has faced additional allegations, including stalking a friend’s boyfriend during his time at USC, resulting in a no-contact order, and claims of groping without consent by another student from USC.

Assessing the Renewal of English Teacher

Concerns About the Show’s Future

Evan listens with an angry look as three students talk to him in the school hallway in English Teacher

Although FX’s decision to proceed with English Teacher season 2 suggests confidence in its viability, unresolved allegations against Alvarez may pose a threat to the show’s longevity beyond its upcoming season. Historical cases of on-set misconduct have previously led to the cancellation of productions, as seen with Showtime’s SMILF and FX’s Louie. Given Alvarez’s dual role as creator and leading actor, the ability to recast or continue the series without him would be significantly complicated.

Sources: Deadline & Reelgood

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