HBO has announced that the second season of 'The Pitt', a popular TV show from 2025, will premiere in January 2026, following the successful 15-episode format of its first season. CEO Casey Bloys highlighted that this model allows for a shorter gap between seasons, contrasting with other shows like 'House of the Dragon', which often require longer production times. The show will maintain its unique structure of each episode depicting one hour of an ER shift, with the second season set during the July 4 weekend. This format is appreciated for its ability to deliver a substantial number of episodes annually, fitting well within HBO's broader programming strategy. An unnamed actor from season 1 will not be returning for the upcoming season, adding intrigue to the show's development.

The Pitt, recognized as one of the standout new TV shows of 2025, will return with its second season in January 2026, continuing its successful format of 15 episodes per season.

CEO Casey Bloys of HBO's Max platform emphasized that the series' model, which allows for more episodes annually, reduces the waiting period between seasons compared to other HBO shows that require extensive production times.

Season 2 will adhere to the same episodic structure, with each installment representing an hour-long ER shift, set against the backdrop of the July 4 weekend, providing a thematic continuity from the first season.

The show is part of HBO's strategic programming, offering a robust addition to the platform's lineup, which includes other high-profile series like 'House of the Dragon' and 'The Last of Us'.

An actor from the first season will not be returning, though specific details about this change remain undisclosed, adding an element of suspense for returning viewers.

The Pitt was one of the best new TV shows of 2025, and an HBO executive recently confirmed when the Max series will return.

Season 1 debuted on January 9, 2025 and ran until April 10, with 15 total episodes in the season.

Keep reading to find out more…

Max CEO Casey Bloys confirmed that next year, The Pitt will also debut season 2 in January!

Casey told Vulture, “[The] second season will premiere in January of 2026, a year later [than Season 1]. This model of more episodes cuts down on the gap between seasons. On the platform, we have shows like House of the Dragon, The Last of Us, and White Lotus, which, because of how they’re made, can take two years to make. What I love about something like The Pitt is, I can get 15 episodes in a year. That’s a really great addition to what we’re already doing on the platform. And I’d like to do more shows in this model.”

Season 2 will follow this same format – with each episode being one hour of that ER shift. The second season will take place over July 4 weekend with a confirmed 15 episode count.

Find out which actor won’t be back for season 2.