Variety’s exclusive first-look confirms that Adjani Salmon’s praised comedy Dreaming Whilst Black is returning for Season 2 in 2025, with the BBC and Showtime set to broadcast. The images and synopsis position Kwabena at the center of a satirical “new era” of diversity promises — a theme that propelled the show to awards attention after Season 1. Co-produced by A24 and Big Deal Films, the renewal turns a web-series success into a transatlantic TV property. This piece breaks down the new facts, industry implications, and the awards data that explain why the show’s comeback matters.
What Variety’s exclusive first-look reveals about Season 2 in 2025
- Adjani Salmon’s series “Dreaming Whilst Black” will return in 2025 on BBC (UK) and Showtime (US).
- Season one earned five major nominations across BAFTA, NAACP and Film Independent.
- Variety frames Season 2 as a satire on industry “diversity, equity and inclusion” promises.
- First-look images published Aug 26, 2025; BBC premiere date remains TBA.
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Variety’s exclusive comes at a moment when prestige TV is re-evaluating representation messaging. Season 2’s official synopsis — shown in the first-look material — places Kwabena in a directing role on a major period drama, framing inclusion as performative rather than resolved. That narrative shift makes the renewal not just another show return: it’s a creative statement about how creators are interrogating industry promises in 2025. The first-look images also confirm continued U.S. distribution via Showtime, marking ongoing transatlantic interest and commercial potential.
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Variety’s piece quotes the series’ creative origins and highlights executive producers and production partners. Public reaction in initial coverage concentrates on the show’s satirical edge — many outlets flagged the synopsis as a direct jab at recent industry pledges on diversity. Industry observers note that a BBC/Showtime pairing plus A24’s involvement signals both creative freedom and stronger U.S. visibility, which could widen the series’ cultural footprint beyond its original UK audience.
What five award nods say about the series’ growing industry reach
Season 1’s awards attention is factual context for the renewal. Variety lists BAFTA TV nominations, an NAACP nod, and Film Independent Spirit Award nominations, demonstrating critical recognition on both sides of the Atlantic. That cross-market acclaim helps explain why broadcasters and streamers would invest in a sophomore season that interrogates industry priorities rather than re-tread safe material.
5 key figures that show why Season 2 matters in the 2025 TV landscape
| KPI | Value + Unit | Scope/Date | Change/Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| BAFTA nominations | 2 nominations | UK, Season 1 (pre-2025) | Raised British critical profile |
| NAACP nomination | 1 nomination | US, Season 1 | Increased U.S. recognition |
| Film Independent Spirit noms | 2 nominations | US, Season 1 | Boosted indie credibility |
| Seasons | 2 seasons | Series, renewed 2025 | Expansion of storyline and audience reach |
Summary: Renewal plus five nominations underline the show’s rising industry and cultural influence.
Variety’s exclusive first-look confirms a clear creative pivot: Season 2 will use satire to test industry diversity rhetoric while expanding its U.S. footprint via Showtime and A24. The combination of awards momentum and transatlantic partners makes this renewal a meaningful indicator of how small, critically loved series can scale in 2025. Expect more publicity and an official premiere date announcement from the BBC soon.
Sources
- https://variety.com/2025/tv/global/dreaming-whilst-black-season-2-2025-first-look-1236497102/
- https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/netflix-august-2025-new-releases-movies-tv-1236334501/
Jessica Morrison is a seasoned entertainment writer with over a decade of experience covering television, film, and pop culture. After earning a degree in journalism from New York University, she worked as a freelance writer for various entertainment magazines before joining red94.net. Her expertise lies in analyzing television series, from groundbreaking dramas to light-hearted comedies, and she often provides in-depth reviews and industry insights. Outside of writing, Jessica is an avid film buff and enjoys discovering new indie movies at local festivals.