The acclaimed Disney+ period drama A Thousand Blows has launched its highly anticipated second season, delivering a major surprise for its dedicated fanbase. In a move that few saw coming, a key character whose story appeared conclusively finished at the end of season one is set for a dramatic and unexpected return.
A Familiar Face Defies Expectations
The hit series, which premiered less than a year ago in early 2025, continues the gritty true story of 19th-century boxer Hezekiah Moscow (Malachi Kirby), his mentor Henry 'Sugar' Goodson (Stephen Graham), and the formidable gang leader Mary Carr (Erin Doherty). The first season concluded with the core trio parting ways and the tragic death of Hezekiah's friend, Alec Munroe.
However, the resurrection of Mr Lao, portrayed by Jason Tobin, promises to be the season's most startling twist. In season one, Mr Lao was imprisoned for murdering a Chinese diplomat responsible for destroying his village and killing his family. In a daring plot orchestrated by Mary Carr and Alice Diamond (Darci Shaw), his death was faked, he was given a new identity, and shipped off to Liverpool for a fresh start.
Jason Tobin on the 'Full Circle' Journey
Speaking exclusively to Reach Plc at the season two premiere in London on 6th January 2026, Tobin expressed his delight at returning to the role. He revealed his focus for the new chapters: exploring how Mr Lao recovers from the devastating events of the previous season.
"And why wouldn't I come back? This is the most incredible team to work with," Tobin stated. He also shared his personal connection to the production, noting it was his first British project after a career largely based in America. "The UK is where I first fell in love with acting when I was a little boy. It's a crazy big circle of my life that I'm back here doing this."
New Additions to the Cast
Alongside the returning stars, season two introduces several new faces to the ensemble. Catherine McCormack, famed for her role in Braveheart, joins as Sophie Lyons. She is accompanied by Ned Dennehy of Peaky Blinders fame, who takes on the role of Bull Jeremy, promising to add new layers of intrigue and conflict to the narrative.
The complete second season of A Thousand Blows is now available for streaming exclusively on Disney+. Fans can delve back into the underworld of Victorian London to discover why Mr Lao has returned and what his reappearance means for Hezekiah, Sugar, and Mary's fragile new paths.
