The writing was already on those fabulous Monterey walls, but Big Little Lies is officially getting bigger. HBO confirms a second season of its Emmy-winning drama in the works with the original cast, and Andrea Arnold taking over the director’s chair.

Following reports that Season 2 had in mind a 2018 production, as well that writer David E. Kelley had already written scripts, HBO confirmed seven episodes of Big Little Lies Season 2 in our collective futures. Transparent and American Honey director Andrea Arnold will take over for Jean-Marc Vallée, while “most of the Season 1 cast are expected to return” (h/t THR).

For reference, that prolific cast includes Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Shailene Woodley, Zoe Kravitz, Laura Dern, Adam Scott and more. Novel author Liane Moriarty worked with Kelley to shape the Season 2 story, which will follow the “malignancy of lies, the durability of friendships, the fragility of marriage and, of course, the vicious ferocity of sound parenting. Relationships will fray, loyalties will erode … the potential for emotional and bodily injury shall loom.” Said Witherspoon of the news:

I’m thrilled to be bringing back this talented team of artists. It gives us the opportunity to delve deeper into the lives of these intriguing and intricate Monterey families and bring more of their stories back to the audience who embraced and championed them. I’m beyond excited to be working with talented and acclaimed director Andrea Arnold who will be at the helm. Andrea’s unique storytelling style will be a welcome addition to the filmmaking team.

There’s little surprise HBO would move forward on a second season, given the rapturous critical response and sixteen Emmy nominations; eight wins of which included Outstanding Limited Series, Outstanding Lead Actress for Nicole Kidman, and supporting Emmys for Laura Dern and Alexander Skarsgard. Production on Season 2 was previously said to begin in the spring, so stay tuned for the latest on Big Little Lies.

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