After a long wait, we’ve finally been delivered the second season of The Boyfriend. Dropped onto Netflix and into our hearts in the midst of winter, is this the series that will once again warm our hearts? Or are we in for something a little colder this time? Strap up your snow boots, dig out your igloo, and let’s get cozy in the warm with the new season!
Background
The Boyfriend’s first series was a runaway hit when it came out in 2024. People appreciated not just the cute guys who made up the cast, but also the laid-back, almost cottagecore vibes that it gave off, compared to other dating/reality shows. Additionally, the love rivalries and slowly growing relationships made it essential viewing for anyone who was seeking content that was utterly bingeable.
Although the second series had been confirmed for a while, it wasn’t until December of 2025 that Netflix dropped the announcement that the second season was imminent — releasing on 13 January 2026 — and that it would be set in Hokkaido, with even more episodes than before. Hype was heightened, the corn was popped, and we were seated. So, when the first four episodes dropped… what happened?
All New, All Different
The first thing that struck me was that the editing was somewhat different to the way it had been in the first series. Where the first had been like marshmallows, season 2’s is more like dark chocolate: still sweet, but with a little bit more of an edge. That isn’t to say that anyone in the cast is especially villainous… or at least, not totally.
Another aspect of the show that is a little different is the increased number of people who are either from abroad, or who have experience living abroad. This is a welcome change, and it is interesting to see how, for many, the influence of non-Japanese culture has shaped their views on a number of issues (not least a discussion on what does and does not constitute cheating).
Perhaps the biggest driver of drama, however, is the number of Green Room residents who have a history with one another. While it wasn’t unknown for some of the boys to know one another (infamously, Alan and Dai had met prior to the filming) this time a lot of the cast are previously acquainted. But who are these guys?
Our Brand New Cast
Let’s go through the new boys we’re introduced to this episode!
Bomi
The first person we are introduced to in the new series, Bomi is a student and part-time DJ who is looking for his first serious relationship. He’s cute, innocent, and there’s definitely a reason he was the first guy we were introduced to: he’s a sweet amuse bouche before we meet the rest of the cast.
Jobu
Jobu works in marketing, and although he says he lacks composure, he still gives off the feeling that this is someone you can rely on. A very good looking guy, you’d think he’d be the belle of the ball. But stick with me, my fellows, for Jobu’s heart is fragile, and — regrettably — it is not in delicate hands.
Izaya
Living primarily in Australia, software developer Izaya has returned to Japan to find a serious relationship, hopefully in the Green Room. He does have a history with some other housemates though, and he is the catalyst for one of the best cliffhangers in the show.
William
Another person who lives abroad, William calls Barcelona home (and don’t worry, you won’t forget: he really likes wearing Barcelona Football Club shirts), he’s looking for marriage, but how serious has he been in the past? A sweet guy, but with something of the villain about him.
Kazuyuki
At 40 years old, Kazuyuki is the oldest member of the cast, and the oldest member to appear on The Boyfriend so far. He’s back in the game because, just 12 months ago, he ended a 15 year relationship. A sales worker from Osaka, he’s very sweet and kind, much like Taeheon from the first series.
Huwei
Another transplant, Huwei is originally from Thailand, and holds a unique distinction among the rest of the cast: he is heading to the 2028 Olympics! A practitioner of judo in training for Thailand’s team, he is also pursuing a PhD in gender studies — the boy has brains and a body! But do his achievements mask something?
Hiroya
An art director who lives in Sapporo — making him perhaps the most experienced with the weather in the new Hokkaido location — Hiroya is something of a workaholic, and has come to the Green Room to try and shake him out of this, and put himself first. He’s very considerate and kind, but will this interest the rest of the cast?
Ryuki
The baby of the house at the tender age of 20, Ryuki has had some bad experiences with men in the past, and part of the reason for his being a part of the show is to try and regain his confidence. In addition to being a student, he works as a barista, meaning that being a part of the team on days selling coffee should be a breeze for him.
So How’s It Going?
From the first episode, you can tell things are going to be a little different. As mentioned, the editing makes it clear that things are going to be more dramatic, as does the number of people who already know one another.
Some things are repeated from the first season, including anonymously writing letters to the guy you like, the coffee truck, and (eventually) solo dates. Similarly, some people — like William and Izaya — are as insanely popular as Kazuto was back in the day.
There are some differences, though. Despite the high drama ending of the first episode, when Izaya says “William is the last person I wanted to see” as they had a previous relationship that fizzled out, the two bond quickly (despite an intense and welcome grilling from Izaya over what it really means to cheat).
Huwei also, despite being the “perfect” man on paper, has a touch of the devil about him. He’s been with a couple of people on the show already — even if they were just dinners — and seems to be the type to ghost people. Sweet on the surface, sour inside?
All of this pales to the plight of our poor, put upon Jobu. Despite being a kind, friendly, handsome guy, his crush goes unrequited (despite his bravery fighting what is clear to outsiders to be a losing battle), and he even misses the first sauna session, despite asking people to be included… and being left on read.
End of Shift
These first few episodes come quick and they come hard. They are a little different to the first season, and those who liked the slow, quiet, almost languorous pace of the first series may be a little put off at first (I was a touch), but keep going: there is plenty in this first batch to keep you entertained and excited.
