Get ready to bundle up as the second season of North of North returns to Ice Cove. The acclaimed comedy series, a collaboration between APTN, CBC, and Netflix, follows Siaja (played by Anna Lambe), a young Inuk woman navigating life post-public breakup with her husband.
Season 1 was a massive success, ranking in Netflix’s Top 10 in 33 countries and earning praise for blending humor with weighty themes. Co-creator and executive producer Stacey Aglok MacDonald expressed their love for comedy with depth, emphasizing the show’s ability to evoke both laughter and tears.
The series received significant recognition, clinching 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 shared their surprise at the show’s overwhelming success, highlighting the unpredictability of its popularity.
Season 2 picks up where Season 1 left off — a year into her new life, Siaja balances motherhood, work, and dating while navigating complex relationships with her mother, Neevee (Maika Harper), and estranged father, Alistair (Jay Ryan). The new season delves into Siaja’s journey of self-discovery, rooted in the Inuktitut concept of pilimmaksarniq — mastering skills through observation, practice, and effort.
As Siaja’s life unravels, she grapples with newfound revelations about her family and strives to find peace amidst the chaos. Meanwhile, Neevee’s character evolves, shedding light on her past and embracing change. The tension between respecting her mother’s wishes and pursuing her own desires creates a poignant narrative thread throughout the season.
Filmed in Iqaluit, Season 2 captures the essence of the Arctic landscape, adding a grounded and enchanting quality to the show. The creators emphasize the importance of authenticity, highlighting the contributions of Inuit cast and crew in shaping the series’ cultural representation.
Despite logistical challenges, such as coordinating handmade costumes from remote Arctic regions, the production team’s dedication to authenticity shines through. The show’s commitment to celebrating diverse Inuit fashion styles underscores its dedication to honoring tradition and place.
Looking ahead, Season 2 promises unexpected twists and deeper character exploration, with new faces joining the ensemble cast. Fans can anticipate a blend of humor and heart, amplified by bigger and bolder storytelling. The upcoming season is set to premiere in Canada on Sept. 1 on APTN+, followed by a broader release on CBC TV, CBC Gem, and APTN TV on Sept. 8, before launching globally on Netflix later this year.