Noah Centineo Returns in ‘The Recruit’ Season 2 with High-Stakes South Korea Mission

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Netflix‘s hit series “The Recruit” returns for its second season on Jan. 30, 2025, with Noah Centineo reprising his role as rookie CIA lawyer Owen Hendricks. The new season follows Hendricks as he navigates a high-stakes espionage mission in South Korea, uncovering threats both abroad and within the CIA itself.

Created by Alexi Hawley, “The Recruit” premiered in 2022 and quickly became a breakout success, amassing 52.3 million viewing hours in its first three days. The show’s second season promises even more action, intrigue, and character development as Hendricks faces new challenges and alliances.

Season 2 introduces several new characters, including Teo Yoo as Jang Kyun, a South Korean National Intelligence Service (NIS) agent, and Young-Ah Kim as Grace, a sharp senior intelligence officer. Felix Solis joins as Tom Wallace, a senior diplomat tasked with securing the release of American hostages, while James Purefoy plays Oliver Bonner-Jones, a charismatic businessman with ties to both legal and illegal ventures.

In an interview with ABC, Centineo shared insights into his dual role as actor and executive producer. “There’s more of an obligation to make sure other people are comfortable and have what they need to do their jobs,” he said. Centineo also praised the South Korean filming locations, describing them as “super cinematic” and highlighting the hardworking local crew.

The season picks up after the shocking Season 1 finale, where Hendricks and former CIA asset Max Meladze (Laura Haddock) were left in grave danger. Hawley explained that the cliffhanger was designed to thrust Hendricks into the deep end, setting the stage for a season focused on redemption and survival. “Owen knows that if he does not walk away with a win this season, his career is going to be over. He might go to prison,” Hawley said.

Centineo and the cast had the unique opportunity to visit and film at CIA headquarters, adding authenticity to the series. “We visited leading up to Season 2, got to meet with a few analysts and lawyers, and picked their brains,” Centineo revealed. “We actually shot at the CIA for Season 2.”

Teo Yoo, who plays Jang Kyun, shared his experience working with Centineo, describing their on-set chemistry as “something special.” He praised Centineo’s leadership, saying, “Noah created an environment where everyone felt safe and cared for.”

Season 2 will consist of six episodes, two fewer than the first season, and will be available to stream on Netflix starting Jan. 30 at 3 a.m. ET. Fans can watch the series on Netflix’s Standard with ads ($6.99/month), Standard without ads ($15.49/month), or Premium ($22.99/month) plans.

Centineo expressed hope for a third season, urging fans to tune in and support the show. “If you guys really like it and love it, maybe we’ll get a third season,” he said. “I know that we certainly would love to do a third season.”