Prepare to bundle up as the return to Ice Cove is on the horizon with Season 2 of North of North.
The highly acclaimed comedy series, a collaborative effort between APTN, CBC, and Netflix, continues to follow Siaja (Anna Lambe), a young Inuk woman reconstructing her life post a highly publicized split from her spouse. Season 1 saw immense success, reaching Netflix’s Top 10 in 33 countries and earning acclaim for its adept blend of humor and weighty themes.
“We appreciate comedy with a heartfelt touch. We enjoy laughter, but we also embrace tears,” remarked co-creator and executive producer Stacey Aglok MacDonald in a conversation with CBC News.
The show garnered significant accolades, securing nine Canadian Screen Awards, including best comedy series and best lead performer in a comedy for Lambe. Co-creator and executive producer Alethea Arnaquq-Baril expressed surprise at the magnitude of the show’s triumph, stating, “We knew something special was brewing, but the extent of its success caught us off guard.”
Season 2 resumes where Season 1 concluded, with Siaja navigating the complexities of motherhood, employment, and dating while confronting intricate family dynamics with her mother, Neevee (Maika Harper), and estranged father, Alistair (Jay Ryan).
The storyline unfolds as Siaja grapples with her mother’s revelation about an older sister, all the while striving to reshape her life and define her identity. The season delves into the Inuktitut principle of ᐱᓕᒻᒪᒃᓴᕐᓂᖅ (pilimmaksarniq) — the process of mastering skills through observation, practice, and effort.
Lambe described her character’s journey this season as a cascade of challenges, leading Siaja to a “very messy place” in her bond with her mother, characterized by raw emotions.
Meanwhile, Neevee, described as enigmatic by Harper, starts to open up, disclosing her decision to move on from the search for her eldest child. As the narrative unfolds, Siaja faces the dilemma of honoring her mother’s wishes while desiring to connect with her sister and assisting her mother in finding peace.
The production of Season 2 reimmerses viewers in Iqaluit, embodying the fictional locale of Ice Cove once more. MacDonald highlighted the significance of filming on-site, underscoring the grounded and enchanting ambiance it lends to the show.
Arnaquq-Baril emphasized the indispensable role of the Inuit cast and crew in maintaining the authenticity of the series. The show’s fashion draws from diverse Inuit styles across Arctic regions, celebrating diversity while staying true to the cultural essence of the setting.
Season 2 promises a trove of unexpected plot twists and deeper exploration of familiar characters, promising a blend of humor and heart on a grander scale. With a diverse ensemble cast and new guest stars, the upcoming season is poised to captivate audiences with its rollercoaster narrative.
North of North Season 2 debuts in Canada on Sept. 1 on APTN+, followed by a wider release on CBC TV, CBC Gem, and APTN TV on Sept. 8. Following its Canadian premiere, the season will launch globally on Netflix later this fall.