Fans of The Artful Dodger have been eagerly awaiting news about the second season of this captivating Australian historical drama. This sequel to Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist took the streaming world by storm with its blend of cunning heists, witty humor, and heartfelt romance. Set in 1850s Australia, the series follows Jack Dawkins, the titular Artful Dodger, as he navigates his dual life as a skilled surgeon and a former pickpocket. With Season 2 officially in production, here’s everything known so far about the release date, cast, and plot details.
Release Date: When to Expect The Artful Dodger Season 2
As of August 2025, no official release date has been confirmed for The Artful Dodger Season 2. However, production updates provide some clues. Filming began in February 2025 and wrapped in May 2025 at Callan Park in Sydney, Australia. Given that Season 1 took roughly a year from the start of filming to its premiere on November 29, 2023, a similar timeline suggests a potential release in early to mid-2026. Posts on X have echoed this speculation, with fans anticipating a launch around spring or summer 2026. While Disney+ and Hulu have remained tight-lipped about an exact date, the show’s strong fanbase and critical acclaim—boasting a 92% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes—make it a priority for the streaming platforms.
Cast: Who’s Returning and Who’s New?
The heart of The Artful Dodger lies in its stellar cast, and Season 2 promises to bring back the beloved trio that made the first season a hit. Thomas Brodie-Sangster will reprise his role as Jack Dawkins, the Artful Dodger, whose charm and internal conflict between his criminal past and surgical aspirations keep viewers hooked. David Thewlis returns as the cunning Fagin, whose complex relationship with Jack adds depth to the story. Maia Mitchell is also back as Lady Belle Fox, the governor’s daughter determined to become the first female surgeon, bringing both romance and ambition to the mix.
Joining the main cast are several new faces, adding fresh dynamics to the series. Luke Bracey steps in as Inspector Henry Boxer, a character likely to stir up trouble for Jack and Fagin. Jeremy Sims will play Uncle Dickie, and Zac Burgess joins as Phineas Golden, though details about their roles remain under wraps. The ensemble will also include returning Australian and New Zealand actors like Damon Herriman, Miranda Tapsell, Tim Minchin, and Susie Porter, whose performances added richness to Season 1. While it’s unclear if Oliver Twist himself will make another appearance, the chemistry among the core cast remains a cornerstone of the show’s appeal.
Plot Details: What to Expect in Season 2
Season 1 of The Artful Dodger left fans on a cliffhanger, with Jack arrested for stealing gold after heroically saving Belle’s life with groundbreaking surgery. Fagin, ever the schemer, betrayed Jack to secure a pardon but later joined him in jail after a dramatic turn involving the murder of Captain Gaines. Season 2 will pick up where these “heart’s desires” left off, promising more “cunning thievery, snappy humor, life-and-death surgeries, and romance with a twist,” according to Disney+ Australia.
The reversed roles of Jack and Fagin set the stage for an intriguing dynamic. Jack, now behind bars, must navigate his tarnished reputation, while Fagin’s newfound freedom and wealth could pull him deeper into the criminal underworld. Belle, having survived her heart surgery, is likely to fight for Jack’s release while pursuing her surgical ambitions in a male-dominated field. Posts on X suggest fans are excited about the potential for more heists, with one user speculating about a daring prison break orchestrated by Fagin. The addition of new characters like Inspector Henry Boxer hints at increased tension, possibly with law enforcement closing in on the duo’s schemes.
The series will continue to blend historical drama with modern flair, exploring themes of reinvention, betrayal, and redemption. Filming locations like Callan Park and Elizabeth Farm will maintain the show’s immersive 19th-century Australian setting, with its sandstone buildings and rugged landscapes. Writers James McNamara, Kate Mulvany, Dan Knight, and Miranda Tapsell are crafting the scripts, ensuring the sharp dialogue and emotional depth that defined Season 1.
