When 13 Reasons Why first premiered on Netflix, it ignited a global conversation. The series, adapted from Jay Asher’s novel and executive produced by Selena Gomez, centered on the tapes left by Hannah Baker (Katherine Langford), a high school student who died by suicide, and the impact they had on her classmate, Clay Jensen (Dylan Minnette). Season 1, released in March 2017, was lauded for tackling taboo subjects but also faced criticism for its graphic depictions of suicide and sexual assault. Anticipation was high when 13 Reasons Why season 2 debuted on May 18, promising to explore the complex aftermath of Hannah’s tragic story.
Season 2 of 13 Reasons Why plunges viewers back into the lives of Liberty High students as they grapple with the repercussions of Hannah Baker’s death. The narrative pivots around the lawsuit filed by Hannah’s parents (Kate Walsh and Brian d’Arcy James) against Liberty High. The Bakers argue that the school was negligent, ignoring the bullying Hannah endured and failing to recognize the warning signs of her suicidal thoughts. This legal battle becomes the central storyline, unfolding in a tense courtroom drama.
Parallel to the lawsuit, Clay and his peers find themselves entangled in another disturbing mystery. Mysterious Polaroid photographs begin to surface, hinting at a pattern of serial sexual assaults perpetrated by members of the school’s baseball team. This revelation adds another layer of darkness to the already heavy atmosphere, forcing the characters to confront uncomfortable truths about their school and community. The season meticulously peels back layers of secrets and lies, revealing the pervasive culture of silence surrounding these critical issues at Liberty High.
Continuing the trend from its first season, 13 Reasons Why season 2 does not shy away from sensitive and potentially triggering content. It delves further into themes of suicide, sexual assault, bullying, and substance use, portraying these issues with unflinching realism. This approach, while intended to foster dialogue and raise awareness, once again drew mixed reactions. Some viewers and mental health professionals criticized the show for its graphic nature, arguing that certain scenes could be excessively disturbing and potentially harmful to vulnerable audiences.
In response to the ongoing debate, the show’s creator, Brian Yorkey, defended the creative choices made in 13 Reasons Why season 2. He emphasized the importance of confronting difficult realities and breaking the silence around issues like sexual assault. Yorkey argued that labeling such content as “disgusting” or “hard to watch” often reflects societal shame and a desire to avoid uncomfortable truths, which ultimately hinders open discussion and support for victims. To mitigate potential harm, Netflix incorporated public service announcements (PSAs) featuring cast members like Katherine Langford, Dylan Minnette, Alisha Boe, and Justin Prentice, addressing viewers directly about the show’s sensitive themes and offering resources for support. Additionally, fan-created trigger guides emerged online, aiming to provide viewers with advance warning about potentially distressing content within episodes.
Despite these efforts, the controversies surrounding 13 Reasons Why season 2 persisted. The intensity of certain storylines led to continued criticism, prompting Netflix to take unprecedented action. In July 2019, months after the season’s release and ahead of the premiere of 13 Reasons Why season 3, Netflix announced the decision to edit out the controversial suicide scene from season 1, reflecting a significant response to viewer and expert feedback.
13 Reasons Why season 3 premiered on August 23, 2019, introducing a time jump and a new central mystery: the murder of Bryce Walker. However, for those seeking to understand the immediate aftermath of Hannah’s story and the deepening complexities faced by the characters, 13 Reasons Why season 2 provides crucial context. For viewers wanting to recall the specifics of the second season, or simply understand its conclusion before moving forward, a recap of the ending is essential.
The finale of 13 Reasons Why season 2 brings a somber resolution to the Bakers’ lawsuit, as they ultimately lose their case against Liberty High. Adding to their personal turmoil, the season concludes with the couple deciding to divorce. In a poignant moment, they meet with a priest (played by Anthony Rapp) to finally arrange Hannah’s funeral, allowing for a formal farewell and a sense of closure. Following the service, at a reception held at Monet’s, Mrs. Baker shares a significant discovery with Clay. She reveals a document written by Hannah titled “11 Reasons Why Not,” a list of reasons to live, where Clay is mentioned twice. Mrs. Baker discloses her plan to move to New York to pursue Hannah’s aspirations, signifying her attempt to keep Hannah’s memory alive and find a new path forward amidst profound loss.
In conclusion, 13 Reasons Why season 2 expands upon the groundwork laid by its predecessor, delving deeper into the challenging realities faced by teenagers and the complex aftermath of tragedy. While continuing to spark debate and controversy due to its intense portrayal of sensitive subjects, the season remains a significant chapter in the 13 Reasons Why narrative, exploring themes of accountability, healing, and the enduring impact of loss.
