‘The Institute’ renewed for season 2 at MGM+ ahead of season 1 finale

MGM+ has officially renewed The Institute for a second season, just ahead of the Season 1 finale set to air on August 24. The new season will include eight episodes and continues the adaptation of Stephen King’s 2019 novel of the same name.

According to MGM+, the show has become the network’s most successful premiere to date. Season 1 features a cast led by Ben Barnes, Mary-Louise Parker, Joe Freeman, Simone Miller, Fionn Laird, Jason Diaz, and Jane Luk.

The series centers on Luke Ellis, a young genius portrayed by Freeman, who is abducted and wakes up at a mysterious facility known as The Institute, where children with special abilities are held. In a nearby town, a former police officer named Tim Jamieson (Barnes) tries to build a new life, only to be pulled into the events surrounding the Institute.

Stephen King, who serves as an executive producer, expressed his excitement for the continuation, saying, “Set free but hunted, new dangers await the escapees from the Institute and I can’t wait.”

Michael Wright, head of MGM+, praised the show for its storytelling and cast, stating, “The Institute has thrilled audiences with its distinctive storytelling and exceptional performances that expertly bring the singular voice of Stephen King to the screen.”

The show is executive produced by King, Jack Bender, and Benjamin Cavell, with Bender also directing and Cavell serving as the writer. The series is produced by MGM+ Studios and will stream exclusively on MGM+ in various countries including the U.S., UK, Germany, Italy, and Brazil, with Amazon MGM Studios Distribution handling other international markets.

Bender and Cavell added, “We’ve felt from the beginning that there was more story to tell. We’re excited to continue this powerful journey.”