Grab your winter gear as the highly anticipated Season 2 of North of North returns to Ice Cove. The acclaimed comedy series, a collaboration among APTN, CBC, and Netflix, follows the journey of Siaja (played by Anna Lambe), a young Inuk woman navigating life post a very public breakup with her spouse. Season 1 made waves globally, ranking in Netflix’s Top 10 in 33 countries and earning critical acclaim for its blend of humor and deep themes.
“We are drawn to comedy with emotional depth. Laughter and tears go hand in hand for us,” shared Stacey Aglok MacDonald, co-creator and executive producer, with CBC News. The show received significant recognition, bagging nine Canadian Screen Awards, including Best Comedy Series and Best Lead Performer in a Comedy for Lambe.
Reflecting on the unexpected success, co-creator and executive producer Alethea Arnaquq-Baril mentioned, “We sensed something unique was happening, but the extent of its triumph took us by surprise.” MacDonald added, “We were overjoyed by it all.”
In Season 2, Siaja finds herself juggling motherhood, work, and dating, while navigating complex relationships with her mother, Neevee (played by Maika Harper), and estranged father, Alistair (portrayed by Jay Ryan). The season unfolds with Siaja processing her mother’s revelation about an older sister, striving to rebuild her life and discover her identity.
The storyline delves into the Inuktitut concept of ᐱᓕᒻᒪᒃᓴᕐᓂᖅ (pilimmaksarniq) — mastering skills through observation, practice, and perseverance. Lambe shared that Siaja’s life unravels in this season, leading to a tumultuous phase in her relationship with her mother.
As Neevee opens up and reveals her acceptance of not seeking her eldest child, Siaja grapples with honoring her mother’s wishes while desiring to connect with her sister. The narrative also explores Neevee’s expanding store and her evolving dynamic with Alistair.
The show’s authenticity is highlighted through its portrayal of Iqaluit as Ice Cove, with on-location filming enhancing the series’ grounded and enchanting feel. The creators emphasized the importance of Inuit representation in the production process for authenticity.
Season 2 promises unexpected twists, new characters, and deeper explorations of existing characters’ lives. Fans can anticipate more humor, heart, and larger-than-life moments. The premiere of North of North Season 2 is set for September 1 in Canada on APTN+, followed by a broader release on CBC TV, CBC Gem, and APTN TV on September 8, with a global launch on Netflix later this fall.