'Wednesday' Season 2 Faces Criticism Over Family Dynamics

The second season of Netflix’s popular series Wednesday has sparked debate among fans and critics regarding its portrayal of family relationships. Released on August 25, 2025, the first four episodes of the season have drawn mixed reactions, with some praising its darker tone while others express concern over its departure from the original themes of The Addams Family.

Wednesday, which debuted its first season in late 2022, quickly gained acclaim for its unique blend of humor and horror, centered around the iconic character Wednesday Addams, played by Jenna Ortega. The show’s success prompted Netflix to announce a third season even before the second season’s full release.

Critics argue that the latest season strays from the core values of the Addams Family, particularly its emphasis on unconditional love and familial bonds. Robert Busek, a cultural commentator, noted that the show has shifted towards themes of teenage isolation and generational trauma. “While the Addams Family movies gave us a portrait of a close-knit family, Wednesday seems to delight in deconstructive dysfunction,” he stated.

In contrast, supporters of the show appreciate its exploration of complex family dynamics, particularly the relationship between Wednesday and her mother, Morticia, portrayed by Catherine Zeta-Jones. The tension between the two characters is a focal point of the season, as they grapple with Wednesday’s psychic abilities and the secrets surrounding them.

The original Addams Family films from the early 1990s presented a narrative where family members supported one another through challenges. In the 1991 film, the family embraces an imposter as one of their own, showcasing their unconditional love. Similarly, in Addams Family Values, the theme of familial loyalty is reinforced as characters navigate personal conflicts.

However, Wednesday diverges from this narrative, emphasizing Wednesday’s estrangement from her family. In the first season, her emotional connections primarily develop with her peers at Nevermore Academy, rather than her family. Critics argue that this shift undermines the essence of the Addams Family, which has traditionally celebrated familial ties.

As Season 2 progresses, the absence of familial affection is notable. Wednesday’s interactions with her brother Pugsley, now a student at Nevermore, are minimal, and her relationship with her father, Gomez, is limited to a brief car ride. This lack of connection has left some fans feeling disappointed, as they expected more emphasis on the family’s dynamics.

Despite these criticisms, the show continues to attract a dedicated fanbase. Supporters argue that the exploration of Wednesday’s character and her struggles with identity and autonomy resonates with contemporary audiences. “The series captures the angst of adolescence while maintaining the quirky charm of the Addams Family,” said a fan on social media.

The remaining four episodes of Season 2 are set to be released on September 3, 2025. Fans are hopeful that these episodes will address some of the concerns raised about the show’s portrayal of family relationships and return to the themes that made the Addams Family beloved.

As the conversation around Wednesday continues, it highlights the evolving nature of storytelling in modern adaptations of classic characters. The balance between honoring source material and exploring new narratives remains a challenge for creators in the entertainment industry.