The highly anticipated second series of the BBC thriller The Night Manager has sparked a divided reaction from its audience, with a vocal contingent of viewers expressing significant disappointment in the new episodes.
Mixed Reviews for the Long-Awaited Sequel
A decade after the first series captivated audiences, the show returned to BBC One on New Year's Day 2026. Tom Hiddleston reprises his role as MI6 agent Jonathan Pine, who is now operating under the alias Alex Goodwin with the Night Owls surveillance unit. His new adversary is the villainous Teddy Dos Santos, played by Diego Calva.
However, following the broadcast of the third episode on Sunday, January 11, which featured a tense stand-off and a sultry dance involving Pine, Dos Santos, and businesswoman Roxana Bolaños (Camila Morrone), some viewers took to social media to vent their frustrations.
Viewers Vent Frustration on Social Media
The criticism, as reported by the Express, was pointed. One viewer posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating: "Does anyone else think the new Night Manager is pretty s***, like it's made by and for Hiddleston's ego. Pretty poor."
Another complained about a lack of suspense, saying: "Unpopular opinion... this series of Night Manager is c**p... without the music it's tension free." A third simply declared: "What a shame The Night Manager is b***** this time around," adding that Corky (Tom Hollander's character from season one) would be "turning in his grave."
Further criticism labelled the new series a "pure poor Bond cliche" and questioned the clarity of the plot, with one baffled viewer asking: "What is even going on?"
Not All Feedback is Negative
Despite the backlash, the series has its staunch defenders. Many fans are thoroughly enjoying the new storyline. One enthusiast argued the opening episodes were "making a case for being one of the best TV shows out there," while another awarded it a perfect score, enthusing: "The Night Manager Season 2 is as good if not better than season 1. Can't wait for the remaining episodes. Absolute cracker 5/5."
The return of the series, which is based on characters from John le Carré's novel, came as a surprise to many. Hopes for a sequel had dwindled, especially following the acclaimed author's death in September 2020. The project was officially confirmed for revival in April 2024.
The Night Manager season two is available to watch on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
