The Irrational” Returns with Season 2 on NBC

The television series “The Irrational,” featuring Jesse L. Martin, returns to NBC for its second season. The show, based on the 2008 book “Predictably Irrational” by Dan Ariely, follows the character Professor Alec Mercer, a renowned behavioral psychologist who assists the FBI by using his understanding of human behavior. The series is set in the Washington, D.C. area, filmed in locations such as Atlanta and Vancouver.

“The Irrational,” alongside another NBC procedural, “Found,” both feature prominent Black leads and address themes of race relations and social justice. However, while “Found” incorporates these issues intrinsically into its storyline, “The Irrational” takes a more scientific, at times detached, approach to its narrative. In the first season, a significant storyline revolved around a church bombing thought to be a hate crime affecting Mercer’s life. Ultimately, the circumstances turned out differently than initially perceived.

The series has been noted for its portrayal of behavioural psychology, often using what some describe as “pop culture joke science.” This approach has been criticized as it doesn’t always present naturally in dialogue, reflecting a common trope in procedurals where a genius consultant resolves cases each episode. Despite this, the series leans heavily on Martin’s charisma to engage its audience.

Season two opens with an attempt to introduce a more dynamic, action-oriented storyline. The season premiere picks up after a cliffhanger involving Alec’s girlfriend, Rose, a former MI6 agent, who was kidnapped. This episode hints at a new direction for the series, focusing on Rose’s background and creating a more thrilling narrative.

However, regular episodes of “The Irrational” remain consistent with its established procedural formula, featuring Alec Mercer solving cases with his psychological insights. Secondary characters like his research assistants, Rizwan and Phoebe, add levity to the show, though their roles appear increasingly superfluous as the series progresses.

The return of Alec’s sister, Kylie, to the FBI further integrates the Mercer family into the law enforcement narrative. The show continues to adapt, trying to balance between presenting darker themes and maintaining a lighter, sometimes humorous procedural tone. Critics have noticed that the series often struggles to commit fully to either style.

“The Irrational” season two premieres on October 8 on NBC, continuing to entertain fans with its unique psychological approach anchored by the performance of Jesse L. Martin.